Relationships are made and broken all around us. Sometimes, we can become apprehensive about our own relationships. We try to protect what we cherish the most. We try to look at ways and means how we can keep our relationship flame burning. However, at the same time, we don’t realise that there are things we may do that can destroy a beautiful relationship. I think, it is these things – which are mostly behavioural traits – that we need to avoid.

Possessiveness

It is ok to be a little possessive about your partner, but if you are too possessive, then it can look like abuse. You shouldn’t, for example, hog all their free time or be jealous of all the people they have around them. Are you jealous because you are insecure or that others bring happiness to them or are you possessive because you know you are not the best partner you could be? Why not step up and be a source of happiness to them?

Restrictions

Too often, in a relationship, we tend to make people act in the way we want them to act. We tell them to avoid doing certain things they like and do things they hate. This is restrictive behaviour (and very close to abuse). If you put yourself in their place, would you like being treated like this? Keep doing this and one day your partner will end the relationship.

Asking for Change

You need to realise that your partner is a different person to you. They have been brought up in a different way from you, and they have a personality that is different from yours. You shouldn’t want them to become like you (why do you want to be in a relationship with just yourself); instead encourage and support them to be the best version of them. Over time we all change and being in a loving supporting relationship will change us to be a better person.

Complacency

When you are in a relationship, you have certain obligations. You need to do a few special things keeping your partner in mind. It is not just about remembering their birthday and showering them with gifts, but you also need to give them a good ear when they want it, a shoulder to cry on when they are looking for one and a motivational word when they need it. You cannot let your relationship grow all by itself; as it won’t.

Competition

Even within the staunchest of relationships, there is often an element of scepticism. You shouldn’t do anything to aggravate that feeling. For example, it is best to not be too friendly to other people if your partner is feeling threatened by them. Casual banter is all right, but you need to draw the line with other people when you are in a relationship with someone. What is the message you send if do things your partner doesn’t like?

What else would you add to this list?