There is a very thin line between love and hate, and sometimes it can be hard to separate the two.
And because of that, there is so much confusion amongst couples and those looking at relationships from a distance making unfounded assumptions.
If someone reacted in a certain way that goes against what you expected does not necessarily mean that they do not care. Granted, we don’t have all the answers.
Just because it doesn’t fit the relationship narrative of accepted behavior it does not necessarily mean it is a bad thing.
So, if you thought any of these habits are toxic you need to think again before you ask your friend to leave her marriage.
1. Attraction to other people
At one point in your life, you will find yourself getting attracted to a stranger, a colleague or a friend despite being in a loving relationship.
By your heart skipping a beat every time this person comes into the picture does not mean you love your partner less or there is something wrong with your relationship.
As much as we only want to have eyes for our partners, there is no denying beautiful people are literally everywhere and you will come across at least one who will leave you intrigued.
2. Walking away
Arguments can escalate very quickly especially when yelling and insults take over. If you feel that the conversation isn’t going anywhere and is only getting worse, relationship experts agree that taking some time off can help the situation.
If you have to walk away in the middle of a terrible fight, do so. Take a break to calm down then attack the problem and not each other.
As a couple who fights dirty, you should agree to have a technique where you give each other time to cool off and get rid of the anger then come back and talk respectfully.
3. Spending time apart
Couples in the honeymoon stage of their relationship are guilty of dropping their friends like they never existed. If you used to have coffee every weekend or a planned gaming night at his house, they mysteriously stop.
Before you know it, you are consumed with each other and cannot stop being around each other. If you’re not careful, this may change you as you start dropping certain things in your life to be around your significant other.
It is important to be alone and do things by yourself. At the end of the day, you don’t enjoy the same activities and for that reason you need space to pursue your interests and hobbies.
4. Hurting each other with the truth
They say honesty is the best policy but what they forgot to tell you is, truth hurts. No matter how hurtful, embarrassing or humiliating a situation may be, tackle it in a wise way. You don’t have to be blunt but express your feelings in a sensitive way.
There is a high chance your partner will feel a certain way but at the end of the day, they will appreciate your honesty. As a couple you should create a safe space where the truth does not breed contempt.
