Relationships do not always end happily. You may believe you've discovered the love of your life, that everything is picture-perfect, and that your relationship will endure forever. It does so at times and not at others.
Frequently, the individuals we choose to be with do not share our feelings. Unfortunately, mind-reading superpowers have yet to be discovered, so before you devote all of your time and love to that special someone, look for these ten telltale indications to see whether your partner is only treating you as a backup plan:
He only contacts you when he requires your assistance.
If he only calls you when he needs you and that's it, that's the number one clue he's treating you as an alternative. He won't even go out of his way to be physically present for you. He'll phone and contact you every now and then for a few days, then abruptly disappear for weeks, only to reappearance later.
And whenever he does get in touch with you, it's always about something he wants from you. If you notice this red flag, run in the opposite direction. A man who cares about you will want to spend time with you and demonstrate his devotion. This disappearing act is unnecessary in your life.
She doesn't put you first.
Another indicator is that she is uninterested in you. Sure, she pays attention to you when she feels like it or is in the mood, but she is never truly there for you. You aren't asking her to drop everything to answer your every call, but it will be good to have her around for the critical times now and again.
When you and your partner decide to start a relationship, it's already a silent agreement that you'll put each other first. This entails attending birthday celebrations, suffering through difficult times together, and enjoying each other's company during pleasant times. However, if she is absent from all three events, you may need to reconsider your life choices.
He doesn't seem to care about you.
Aside from the fact that you're not at the top of his priority list, he also doesn't seem to care about you. Imagine you're sitting across from him after a long day at work, telling him about your office troubles, and he's either browsing on his phone or attempting to change the conversation.
He isn't paying attention to you at all. Why? Because, once again, you're just another choice for him. Who knows, maybe he's just not in the mood to be with you right now because he'd rather be with Girl Number Two. You, as his girlfriend, deserve nothing less than his whole attention.
She's going out with other individuals.
Many people believe that they may get away with it by claiming that he or she is merely a "friend." You weren't born yesterday, so you know she's not just hanging out with any old "buddy." Regardless of how hard you press or how persistent you are, she will almost certainly never admit it.
If your girlfriend is regularly hanging out with these so-called pals, you should probably consider ending the relationship. A relationship is intended to be exclusive unless you two indicated differently. There's no place for seeing other individuals or considering other options.
He shuts you off right away.
It's annoying when someone does this, and when your lover does it all the time, it just indicates that he doesn't respect you. Why should he care about your thoughts, feelings, or opinions if he doesn't appreciate them?
People who consider their spouses as alternatives don't have time for them. They won't take you seriously and will only keep you around for as long as it's convenient for them. If you notice this other red flag, confront him about it and discuss the state of your relationship.
She is a serial liar.
Lying is painful, and we all despise liars. Lying only serves to complicate a calm connection, and a good relationship cannot exist if one of the participants is continually lying. She doesn't even have to lie about major events; she can lie about minor details like where she's been and what she's doing.
In all relationships, this is a significant red flag, and while white lies can be forgiven, obvious and uncalled for deceptions aren't necessary in a mature relationship. You must wake up and realise that she is not the one for you if she feels the need to lie to you.
He doesn't really let you into his life.
Your boyfriend isn't comfortable with the concept of bringing you into his life totally, aside from the fact that he's lying to you. Despite the fact that you've opened yourself up to him, you still have no idea where he lives or have never met his family.
People do this because you are merely a choice for them. Why would he commit time and effort to get to know you or for you to get to know him if you're not a permanent fixture in his life? Also, keep an eye out for contradictory information regarding his personal life, as this is a red indicator.
She threatens to end your relationship.
Threats to your emotional well-being are the worst, especially when they come from someone who claims to love you. Manipulators know how to manipulate their prey. She knows you love her and care for her, and she'll use it against you if she simply sees you as a backup plan.
If she continually threatens to break up with you to obtain what she wants but never follows through, this is yet another red flag for you. She's just interested in you, and it's probably best if you break it up with her first before she turns it on you.
They say love is blind, and in many cases, they are correct. We are frequently unaware that the person we love is already abusing us. We may be blinded by their attractiveness, deeds of affection, or sweet words while continuing to disregard the warning signs.
It's difficult, but we must constantly remind ourselves to keep the big picture in mind. You have every right to ask him or her if you have any questions about your connection. Save yourself before you become another victim on someone's list of possibilities.
It is so bad to make a person just an option. Put your feet in their shoes if you want to know the feeling. Great article btw.