We have all been, or will be, in a romantic relationship at some point in our lives. In fact, many us will be in multiple romantic relationships. Wherever you are right now you need to remember that there are times when you do need to let go of a relationship in order to prioritise yourself and your ultimate happiness. When you are the one involved in the relationship it can be extremely difficult to see if you are being treated poorly or deserve more. So, from an outsiders point of view, here are a few examples of when it’s time to get out.

Losing Touch

When your wellbeing and happiness are no longer your priority, you need to reconsider the relationship. It’s easy to become absorbed in a relationship, and if it is mutually loving and beneficial then that’s not such a bad thing. But when you are compromising your own values and beliefs, constantly privileging your partner’s needs over your own, or no longer pursuing the hobbies you used to love it is time to rethink things. Losing your sense of self is bad for both you and the relationship. You should be able to be your own person still, and if you lose sight of that person then you grow to depend on your partner. This can leave you feeling needy and lost. Stay true to yourself and remember who you are.

Complement Me

Do you and your partner complement each other? A romantic relationship should enhance both party’s lives, not impact them negatively. Is there still mutual respect and kindness between you? Do they still treat you as they did when you first began dating? Don’t accept anything less than the best in your relationship. Often after a long time together people begin taking each other for granted and forget to appreciate each other. Don’t make that mistake, and don’t put up with it if you are the one being taken for granted. You deserve to be treated as the amazing human you are, so don’t let your standards fall.

Conflicting Values

If you are involved in a romantic relationship with someone from a young age, you will grow and change a lot throughout your time together. Your twenties are the years where you really find yourself, and discover exactly who you want to be. You may find your values and ideals are now defined, or very different to those you had in your teenage years. The things that you had in common with your partner initially may no longer be there. If this is the case, it doesn’t mean the relationship should end. But if you have strongly opposing opinions about serious matters, which cause conflict in your relationship, then you should ask yourself whether that is something you can handle. You don’t want to start compromising your beliefs.

Sparks Fly

If the spark dies, it could be time to call things quits. The passion and excitement in a relationship will naturally die down a little as time goes on, which isn’t cause to worry. But if you no longer find your partner attractive or look forward to seeing them, then that’s an issue. Does your partner still make you laugh on a daily basis and give you butterflies now and then? Do you still perceive your relationship as special? That spark, or connection, is probably the best thing about a relationship so treasure it – and if it disappears, ask yourself why.