THESE relationships don't last

Ever been in a relationship where you or your partner weren't wholly invested?

I can bet that the relationship probably didn't survive.

Though difficult to discuss at times, the reasons why the partner isn't engaged should be openly communicated. Keeping those feelings bottled up will only breed further bitterness and animosity.

Otherwise, finger pointing and passing blaming will invariably ensue, potentially putting the relationship in serious trouble.

For a relationship to survive -- let alone thrive --it's either all hands on deck, or you can kiss the relationship goodbye.

It goes without saying that relationships are no walk in the park. In the worst cases, they can be emotionally draining, eating away at our happiness and well-being.

And when a partner isn't fully committed, it isn't that hard to tell.

They withhold affection, are often combative, and prioritize their needs and wants over their partner's at every turn. When the other partner's attempts at remedying the situation go overlooked, they can begin to grow resentful.

And when both partners are similarly disconnected -- from the relationship and each other -- it can feel like going through the motions day in and day out.

The first step should be for both individuals to sit down and air out their grievances (perhaps over a nice dinner, even if it's at home).

The disenchanted partner may have some legitimate reasons for lacking enthusiasm -- reasons that should be addressed.

For example, maybe he hasn't gotten over the fact that he caught his girlfriend flirting with another guy once, despite her apology and honest pledge never to do it again.

But that gives him no right to be condescending toward or dismissive of her.

Perhaps he merely needs reassurance, or the lines of communication need to be improved.

If this doesn't work, the couple may consider asking close friends/relatives for advice or enlisting the help of a relationship counselor.

If that bears no fruit either, the pair needs to decide whether going their separate ways is the best (or only) option.

Remember, the half-hearted approach is not an option. And those who don't intend to go all in should not give their partner the opposite impression.

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