10 Signs That A Relationship Is Ending (Part II)

What's the difference between a temporary rough patch and an unsolvable, relationship-ending issue? How can you tell when a problem is worth working through, and when it's time to move on?

In Part One, we discussed 4 signs that a relationship has run its course, like a lack of communication and concern expressed by friends. Here are 6 more signs that you're headed for a break up.

1. You are no longer planning for the future. Remember when you had plans, goals, dreams? Remember when you had a vision for your beautiful future together? Remember when you had shared aspirations, and were willing to work together to achieve them? When relationship-building behaviors like these come to an end, and your futures begin to feel incompatible, the relationship needs to come to an end as well.
2. You've stopped making time for each other. Are you or your partner finding yourselves spending more time at work, or spending your free time engaged in activities that keep you apart? A relationship requires significant time investment from both parties. When partners are no longer willing to set aside time for each other, or intentionally distract themselves with activities that are done solo or with friends, the relationship is beginning to crumble.
3. Your arguments have become increasingly serious and frequent. Everyone bickers from time to time. Arguing is not a sign that a relationship is doomed - it's the nature of the arguments that hints at the future of the relationship. When arguing becomes incessant and you cannot see resolution on the horizon, or when your arguments have evolved from bickering into disrespectful and deeply hurtful fights, consideration and love are fighting a losing battle.
4. Punishment has become a part of your relationship. When arguing escalates, partners start fighting dirty. If you feel that your partner is intentionally punishing you, or you notice that your words and actions have become intentionally spiteful and cruel, you have reached a point when you must reevaluate your relationship.
5. You've developed an unhealthy obsession with the bad aspects of your relationship. During the honeymoon period of a relationship, partners are blind to each other's bad sides. During the break down of a relationship, exactly the opposite happens. Partners are focused solely on each other's faults and the shortcomings of the relationship. If you're only able to focus on the negative, it's time to consider breaking up.
6. You're living in the past. "The good old days" are not a reason to stay in a failing relationship. The fond memories of the past you shared do not outweigh the unhappiness you're experiencing now. Look to the future, don't live in the past, and let go.

Ending a relationship is difficult, but staying in a relationship that clearly isn't working leads to even more pain in the end. When you see these 10 signs, gather your courage, take the plunge, and begin the process of moving on.