Relationship Deal Breakers: Everything You Need to Know
Have you ever been in a situation where you thought everything was going well, but then your partner did something that made you question everything? Perhaps they disrespected you, lied to you, or behaved in a way that was completely unacceptable.
These are examples of deal breakers in a relationship. Deal breakers refer to behaviors or characteristics that an individual views as unacceptable or intolerable in their partner.
In this article, we will explore the meaning of relationship deal breakers, why they are important, and the top 20 deal breakers that can make or break a relationship.
Meaning of Relationship Deal Breakers
A deal breaker is an action or behavior that a person deems unacceptable in a potential or current partner. It is something that can lead to the abandonment of plans to pursue a relationship.
Deal breakers can differ from person to person, and what one person considers a deal breaker may not be a big deal to someone else. In general, though, deal breakers are characterized as unhealthy behaviors or situations that could cause harm, such as emotional, physical, or mental abuse, gaslighting, or lies.
Importance of Relationship Deal Breakers
Recognizing your deal breakers can help you identify unhealthy or unbalanced relationship roles. It can also help you to avoid dangerous situations before they escalate to something more serious.
Moreover, being aware of your deal breakers can also help you to reflect more on your communication and develop a better understanding of what you want and do not want in a relationship.
Top 20 Relationship Deal Breakers
Now that we have a clear idea of what deal breakers are and why they are important, let us take a look at the top 20 deal breakers capable of causing relationship woes:
1. Ego and Stubbornness
A big ego and stubbornness can be suffocating to a partner.
Whenever they express their opinion, they may be faced with judgment, criticism, or even ridicule.
2. Dishonesty and Lies
Lies are like a sinking feeling in a relationship, and they often lead to anger or hurt. When lies are discovered, they can be devastating, even more so than white lies.
3. Manipulation and Control
A manipulative and controlling partner often plays mind games and may ultimately lead to the failure of the relationship.
Emotional and mental abuse is a major deal breaker, and should not be tolerated under any circumstance.
4. Lack of Availability and Dependability
Having a partner that is not available when you need them can be an uncomfortable feeling. Healthy dependency means that you feel secure enough to rely on your partner for support, comfort, and help when you need it.
Absence of this can be a deal breaker.
5. Lack of Trust
Trust is essential in a relationship. When your partner does not honor their word or speak in an accusatory tone, it can create worry and fear.
These are signs that trust is absent and your relationship could suffer.
6. Infidelity
Being unfaithful to your partner in a monogamous relationship is extremely damaging. Step away if your partner has a history of infidelity and is not willing to change.
7. Disrespect
Respect should be key in every relationship.
Power imbalances, feeling undervalued, and resentment signify a lack of respect with the potential to lead to abuse.
8. Violence
Violence in any form, whether it be hitting, burning, or strangulation, is unacceptable in any relationship and should never be tolerated.
9. Abuse
Similarly, emotional and physical abuse should never be accepted in any situation. Seek support from a therapist or the World Health Organization (WHO) if you are experiencing abuse.
10. Sexual Incompatibility
Sexual compatibility is essential to a healthy and happy relationship.
Divorces and breakups often result from sexual incompatibility. Do not ignore the symptoms of this deal breaker.
11. Lack of Effort
Effort is key to any successful relationship.
A well-oiled machine requires serious effort, and the absence of it may indicate that the relationship is not stable for a long-term partnership.
12. Rudeness
A partner that is rude and mean, with derogatory remarks and hurtful comments that form part of their vocabulary, is a deal breaker.
13. Sexism
Exploiting, belittling, or shaming your partner for who they are is toxic and must be avoided.
14. Racism
Insulting or making derogatory comments bigotry towards your partner, especially those based on their race, is frustrating and unacceptable.
15. Anger Issues
Uncontrolled anger, frustration, and destructive behavior can be abusive, making it a deal breaker in relationships.
16. Lack of Priority
Feeling like an option instead of a priority in life and conversations is not healthy and can cause resentment and frustration.
17. Inability to Be Yourself
A pretentious partner who makes you mask your true self can be painful. It is essential to have open communication and be honest to avoid a lifetime of agony.
18. Different Relationship Goals
The idea of commitment and five-year plans are important to note when starting a relationship.
Know your partners plans to avoid dissatisfaction in the long run.
19. Opposing Morals and Values
Mismatched morals and values can lead to hurtful arguments and resentment. If they become toxic, it may necessitate considering it a deal breaker.
20. Individual Decision
It all comes down to the individual decision.
You know your non-negotiables, have a clear judgment and decision-making process, and ultimately decide what to look out for and what constitutes a deal breaker.
Conclusion
Relationship deal breakers are different for everyone and are crucial to recognize to maintain a healthy and happy relationship. They can vary from a lack of trust to violence, from opposing morals and values to sexual incompatibility, from dishonesty and lies to manipulative and controlling behaviors.
Recognizing your deal breakers will help you avoid toxic relationships and find the partner that is right for you. So, take your time deciding and do not be afraid to go back to the drawing board if you find something that does not fit with your expectations.
In conclusion, understanding the concept of relationship deal breakers is crucial for maintaining healthy, happy partnerships. We have explored the meaning of deal breakers and why they are important, as well as the top 20 deal breakers that can make or break a relationship.
Recognizing your deal breakers can help you avoid unhealthy or unbalanced relationship roles, dangerous situations, and ultimately, toxic relationships. Remember, it is important to know what you want and do not want in a relationship and to communicate effectively to avoid deal breakers that can ultimately lead to relationship woes.
