8 Signs You're in a Dead End Relationship

Have you ever wondered if you’re in the wrong relationship? While relationships can have their fair share of ups and downs, it’s important to be able to recognize if your relationship is on the path to success or is heading nowhere fast. Fortunately, there are eight top signs that can let you know if you’re in a dead end relationship so you can cut your losses and find someone new.

1. You’re Unhappy

One of the clear signs that you’re in a dead end relationship is that you’re simply not happy. For instance, if you feel unfulfilled by your partner and don’t find joy in your connection, these are key indicators that your relationship is destined to fail. Relationships can have highs and lows, but if being with your partner isn’t something that makes you smile at the end of the day, the best step is to end this relationship sooner rather than later.

2. You’re Bored

If you’re feeling apathetic about your partner, this is another top indicator that your relationship is going to fail. Your connection with your partner should be a source of excitement and intrigue in your life, but if you derive little pleasure from your relationship and are feeling indifferent, your next step should be to break up. Life is too short to be bored with the person you're with, so it's time to end this dead end relationship. 

3. You Feel as Though You're Settling

If you’re wondering if you’re in a dead end relationship, you should take a closer look at your reasons for being with your partner in the first place. Many people stay with their partner long after their relationship has reached its expiration date because they’re afraid to be alone. For example, if you’re with your partner because you think you can't do any better, you’re worried about being single, or you think you’ve put in too much time to end things with him or her, then you’re clearly in a dead end relationship. In a happy and healthy relationship, you should wholeheartedly want to be with your partner for the right reasons, and if you’re not, then you’re in the wrong relationship.

4. You’d Rather Spend Time With Other People

Do you seek out opportunities to spend time with people who aren’t your partner? If you’re going out of your way to make plans with others so you don’t have to spend one-on-one time together, this is clearly an indicator that you’re in a dead end relationship. When you don’t enjoy being alone as a couple and try to limit the amount of time that you’re together, you’re better off without this person. If being with him or her feels like a chore rather than a choice, this relationship should end.

5. You Feel That Your Relationship Is Off

In many cases, the feeling that something isn’t right can help clue you in that you’re in a dead end relationship. Your gut feeling that you're with the wrong person shouldn't be ignored, as your instincts are key in determining who you should be with and what you want out of a relationship. If you don't feel as though your relationship is right, the right thing is to break up with him or her. 

6. You Don’t Want the Same Things

Another key sign that you're in a dead end relationship is that you and your partner aren't on the same page when it comes to major life choices. For instance, if you truly want to have children one day and your partner doesn't see kids in his or her future, this major discrepancy is going to cause your relationship to fail. Neither you nor your partner should have to sacrifice key values and priorities in order to make your connection last, and if your goals don't align, you're clearly in a dead end relationship. 

7. You’re Pining for Someone Else 

Are you longing to be with someone who isn't your partner? A top indicator that you're in a dead end relationship is that your partner isn't the person with whom you want to be. And when you're prioritizing someone else both in your mind and in your heart, your relationship is bound to self-destruct. For example, if you're pining after someone else and find yourself daydreaming about being with him or her instead, this is the wakeup call you need to end your current relationship and start a new one.

8. You’re Not Yourself

If you find that you're not your authentic self in your relationship, this should help you to recognize that you're in a dead end relationship. For instance, if you find that you're playing a role when you're with your partner, don't say what's really on your mind, and are hesitant to share anything about your past, this isn't healthy or sustainable. When you're with the right person, you'll feel completely comfortable around him or her and won't be afraid to express your true thoughts and feelings.