Is Your Relationship Road About To Get Bumpy?

Every relationship has its ups and downs, but when the downs start to outweigh the ups, it's time to reevaluate whether or not you're meant to be together. Just like your car needs the occasional oil change and new tires, your relationship needs maintenance in order to continue running smoothly. Without regular tune-ups, you'll be headed straight for a breakdown (or a breakup).

Unfortunately, unlike your car, your relationship doesn't have a little red light that goes on when it's time for one of those tune-ups. So how do you know your relationship is ready for some TLC? Look out for these signs that the road is about to get bumpy:

You share living space, but little else. You live in the same house, but you barely interact. When you lived with a roommate that was great (who doesn't love privacy and personal space?), but when you live with a romantic partner, it's a sign that trouble's up ahead. The physical distance may be an indication of emotional distance that needs to be addressed, and statistics have made it clear that partners who don't have their needs for affection, attention, and appreciation met will get them met outside of the relationship.

You've forgotten to take "Me Time." Connecting with your partner is important, but so is taking time out to connect with yourself. When you feel that you're sacrificing everything for someone else, and getting nothing in return, it's time to take a second look at your relationship. Are your needs being met, or just your partner's?

The love is long gone. Relationships change over time, and that's nothing to be afraid of. Sometimes they strengthen, sometimes they weaken - either way, it's the natural course of life. You may come to the realization that you love a partner but are no longer in love with them, in which case it is probably time for both of you to move on to a more fulfilling relationship.

Your routine has left you longing for something new. Stability is something we all look for in a relationship, but stability doesn't have to mean stagnation or boredom. Falling into a romantic routine can mean becoming complacent and taking a partner for granted. Switch things up - a new restaurant, a new activity for date night, a weekend getaway - to bring excitement and energy back to the relationship.

Communication is a thing of the past. Nothing sustains a relationship like intimacy and communication, so when they fade, you're guaranteed to be facing a few potholes in the road. Work to re-open channels of communication, be vulnerable and open, and stay present with your partner.