It’s a difficult realization to come to, but sometimes it’s necessary to accept that a relationship is over. Whether it’s a romantic partnership, a friendship, or any other type of relationship, it can be hard to let go and move on. But the only way to truly know if a relationship is worth saving is to ask yourself some tough questions. In this blog, we’ll look at five questions you can ask yourself to determine whether it’s time to let go of your relationship or if there’s still a chance for you and your partner to work things out.

Introduction – The Basics of Knowing When a Relationship is Over

When it comes to relationships, there is no one-size-fits-all answer for when it’s time to let go. Every relationship is unique, and the decision to stay or to leave should be based on your individual needs and values. That said, there are some universal indicators that a relationship might be beyond saving. If you feel like your relationship is not meeting your needs, if you feel like you’re not growing together, or if you’re just not happy, then it may be time to reevaluate the relationship.

The best way to decide if you should stay or go is to ask yourself some tough questions. By taking an honest look at your relationship, you can get a better understanding of where things stand. Even if the answer isn’t what you want to hear, it can be the first step to finding peace and moving on.

Question #1 – Are You Both Committed to the Relationship?

The first question to ask yourself is if you and your partner are both committed to the relationship. Are you both putting in the effort to make things work? Are you both willing to compromise and make sacrifices when needed? Are you both invested in the relationship and willing to go the distance?

If the answer is no, then it might be time to move on. A relationship can’t be successful if only one person is putting in the effort. If you’re the only one trying to make things work, then it’s time to accept that the relationship is no longer fulfilling and it’s time to move on.

Question #2 – Are You Both Growing Together?

The second question to ask yourself to learn if the relationship is over is are you and your partner are still growing together. Are you both learning and growing as individuals? Are you both challenging each other to be the best version of yourselves? Are you both pushing each other to reach new heights?

A relationship should be a source of growth and support, not a source of stagnation. If you and your partner are no longer pushing each other to grow, it’s a sign that your relationship isn’t fulfilling and supportive.

Question #3 – Is There Still Respect?

The third question to ask yourself is if there is still respect in the relationship. Are you both listening to each other and valuing each other’s opinions? Are you both showing each other kindness and compassion? Are you both treating each other with respect and dignity?

A relationship cannot survive without respect. In fact, relationship researcher John Gottman has been able to predict divorce with amazing accuracy when judgment, criticism, and contempt are present. If you and your partner no respect each other, it may be time to move on. Respect is a hard thing to get back once it’s lost.

Question #4 – Are You Both Willing to Make Changes?

The fourth question to ask yourself is if you and your partner are both willing to make changes. Are you both open to trying new things and taking risks? Are you both willing to work through conflicts and make compromises? Are you both ready to be honest and take accountability for the part you’ve played in the relationship problems?

A relationship cannot progress if neither person is willing to make changes. If you and your partner are shut down and no longer willing to take vulnerable risks, then there’s nothing to work toward and it seems the decision to end the relationship is already made.

Question #5 – Do You Still Argue?

I know this sounds like a weird question, but do you and your partner still argue? While excessive, round-and-round arguments are destructive, so is NOT arguing. Do you still have disagreements or are you resigned? Do you feel like your concerns are pointless to bring up? Are you still fighting for what you believe in because you have hope that things might change? Are you still willing to express your feelings and opinions because, at the very least, you know your partner values you?

If you’ve answered no to these questions, there are some serious concerns. A relationship cannot thrive without honest, and somewhat healthy communication. If you and your partner are no longer arguing or expressing your feelings, then it’s time to acknowledge the toxicity of this situation.

Final Thoughts: Is Your Relationship Over?

No one ever wants to face the reality that a relationship might be over. But sometimes it’s necessary to accept that a relationship is no longer fulfilling and it’s time to move on. By asking yourself these five questions, you can get a better understanding of where things stand and make an informed decision about whether it’s time to let go or if there’s still a chance for you and your partner to work things out.

If you’re still unsure, you can always reach out to a professional counselor or therapist. Knot Counseling specializes in couples therapy, and we can help you and your partner work through any issues that may be preventing you from moving forward. Follow this guide to make sure your marriage therapist is a good fit for you.