Five Stages of a Relationship – How to Understand a Relationship

What are the five stages of a relationship? Are the five Phoenix karaoke of a relationship the same for each relationship you are in? How can you tell which stage of a relationship you are in?

Much like anything else, relationships have different stages. While no stage is any more important or less important than another, it is important to understand the five stages of a relationship. Understanding the five stages of a relationship is important if you feel as though your relationship is moving either too fast or too slow. If you know the stages, you can keep it moving on the right path.

The Romance Stage

This is the first stage in a relationship. This stage can last from two months to years and it consists of the time in which the two of you meet and everything is coming up roses. At this point, you are infatuated with each other and neither one can do anything wrong. At this stage of the relationship, there is nothing that the two of you wouldn’t do for each other and you try to please the other person as much as you can. In the romance stage, your body is also full of endorphins which help you feel happy and excited and in love.

The Disillusionment Stage

At this stage, some of the newness has worn off and some of the warts of your partner begin to shine through. As you get to know each other better, you will realize that your boyfriend is not perfect, but you can still be in love with him as long as you are willing to overlook these flaws. As your level of endorphins begins to decline, you also won’t have that warm and fuzzy feeling all of the time. There are also a few conflicts that arise during this stage, so communication will be key in order to correct these problems and move past them.

The Power Struggle Stage

Here, the flaws of your partner become a little harder to deal with. There may also be a point when you begin to spend less time together and pull apart somewhat. At this point, you will also define what you are willing to live with and which flaws are deal breakers. In addition, if you don’t communicate during this stage, you may start to see some resentment beginning to build which could destroy the relationship.

The Stability Stage

Here, couples that manage to get through the previous stage have a peaceful and happy time. Couples that make it to this fourth stage generally have a deep appreciation and connection for each other. At this point, you have come to accept your partner’s flaws and understand that you can live with them. You will also be able to get over any differences and they see their partner in a whole new light.

The Commitment Stage

Here, couples accept each other for who they are and make a choice to be with each other. At this point, you and your boyfriend are a team and you truly love each other and are each other’s best friend. In addition, there are few surprises left in the relationship and you have gotten to a point where you truly trust each other and will support one another.