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Topics: Sex and Relationships, Life
Callum Jones
An expert has revealed the three major warning signs that may mean your relationship is 'doomed'.
When you're stuck in the middle of a relationship situation it can be a little difficult to gain perspective.
Of course, you can always chat to your mates and family for advice, but if you are looking for something a little more independent then you can listen to the advice of an expert.
I mean, they have that title for a reason.
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Licensed counselor Suzanne Degges-White is someone you can look to for advice, with the Northern Illinois University professor opening up about the the three signs which could show you're in a 'doomed' relationship.
Perhaps more noticeable if you live with your partner, delaying your return home, whether that be from work or somewhere else, could mean your relationship is not destined for the long run.
If you subconsciously delay going home, or maybe even just dread it, then you may want to think about your relationship.
While less intense, this could also mean avoiding seeing or spending time with your partner in the event that you do not live with them.
"You look for reasons that you can delay spending time with that person," Degges-White told Business Insider.
The second red flag to self-identify also ties in with avoiding your partner, though rather than physically evading them, this pertains to not responding to their text messages.
While some might see it as mere forgetfulness, it can sometimes mean much more than that.
Degges-White claimed that one of the biggest signs of an unhealthy relationship is 'when you find yourself engaged in self-protection, avoidance behaviors'.
Finally, the professor explained that being unable to envision a future with your significant other could mean you don't have much of a future with them.
If you find yourself lacking hopefulness when it comes to the next steps you and your partner may take - be it marriage, kids, or even just moving in together - according to the expert, it could be a sign that the end of your relationship is a foregone conclusion.
Furthermore, if you can’t seem to work out how your partner fits into your future plans and goals as an individual, it could mean that you subconsciously don’t want them in your life long-term.
Degges-White also revealed the signs of a good relationship in contrast to these red flags, saying: "You're more likely to experience feelings of gratitude for the person you're with… You feel hopeful about the future - your focus is on what's coming next versus mistakes you've made."