5 Relationship Blunders That Doom It From the Start

And what you can do to avoid them.

Ria Vanessa Caliste
Hello, Love
4 min readFeb 27, 2024

--

Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash

Relationships are delicate ecosystems that require nurturing, understanding, and commitment to flourish.

However, even with the best intentions, many relationships falter right from the beginning due to various blunders.

These blunders can set a negative tone, erode trust, and create irreparable damage, ultimately dooming the relationship.

We will explore five common relationship blunders that have the potential to sabotage a budding connection before it even has a chance to thrive, and with this knowledge be able to avoid them to continue the process of developing a healthy and fulfilling relationship.

Blunder #1: Lack of Communication

Communication is the cornerstone of any healthy relationship.

However, many relationships hit a roadblock early on due to a lack of effective communication.

This blunder manifests in various ways, including avoiding difficult conversations, failing to express needs and desires, and not actively listening to your partner.

When communication breaks down, misunderstandings arise, resentment builds, and emotional intimacy dwindles.

Without open and honest communication, couples struggle to resolve conflicts, leading to frustration and disconnection.

To avoid this blunder, prioritize communication from the outset.

Practice active listening, express yourself honestly, and encourage your partner to do the same.

Building a foundation of strong communication sets the stage for a resilient and thriving relationship.

Blunder #2: Ignoring Red Flags

In the early stages of a relationship, it’s easy to overlook red flags or warning signs that indicate potential issues down the road.

Whether it’s subtle behavior patterns, conflicting values, or unresolved emotional baggage, ignoring red flags can spell disaster for the future of the relationship.

Ignoring red flags often stems from a desire to see the best in our partner or a fear of being alone.

However, turning a blind eye to warning signs only delays the inevitable and sets the stage for disappointment and heartache later on.

It’s essential to trust your instincts and take note of any red flags that may arise early in the relationship.

Address concerns openly and honestly with your partner, and be willing to walk away if necessary to protect your emotional well-being and avoid more emotional distress later on in the relationship

Blunder #3: Moving Too Fast

In the excitement of a new relationship, it’s tempting to dive headfirst into deep commitment without taking the time to truly get to know each other.

Moving too fast can lead to a distorted perception of the relationship and create unrealistic expectations.

Rushing into major milestones such as moving in together, getting engaged, or starting a family can put undue pressure on the relationship and strain its foundation.

It’s crucial to allow the relationship to develop organically and take the time to build a strong emotional connection before making significant commitments.

By pacing the relationship appropriately and allowing it to evolve naturally, couples can ensure that they are on the same page and genuinely compatible for the long haul.

Blunder #4: Neglecting Self-Care

Healthy relationships require individuals who are emotionally, mentally, and physically fulfilled on their own.

Neglecting self-care and relying solely on your partner for happiness and fulfillment sets an unsustainable precedent that can lead to resentment and dependency.

It’s essential to maintain a sense of independence and prioritize self-care activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul.

Cultivate hobbies, spend time with friends and family, and invest in your personal growth and well-being.

By taking care of yourself, you not only become a better partner but also ensure that you bring your best self to the relationship.

Blunder #5: Failing to Establish Boundaries

Boundaries are essential for maintaining a healthy and respectful relationship dynamic. Boundaries are what you consider acceptable and non-acceptable on the part of each partner. Failing to establish boundaries from the beginning can lead to misunderstandings, resentment, and a lack of mutual respect.

Without clear boundaries, individuals may overstep each other’s limits, leading to conflict and discord.

It’s crucial to communicate your needs, preferences, and boundaries openly and assertively with your partner.

Respect each other’s boundaries and be willing to compromise when necessary to ensure that both parties feel valued and respected in the relationship.

Building a successful and fulfilling relationship requires effort, patience, and a willingness to navigate challenges together.

By avoiding these five relationship blunders and prioritizing open communication, mutual respect, and self-care, couples can lay the groundwork for a strong and enduring connection.

Remember though that every relationship is unique, and it’s essential to approach each other with empathy, understanding, and a commitment to growth.

With dedication and perseverance, even the most challenging beginnings can lead to a love that stands the test of time.

--

--

Ria Vanessa Caliste
Hello, Love

Engaging on a life long path of self discovery. Counselor, Writer for life. Connect with me at: axiomcounsel@gmail.com or www.axiomcounsel.com