Ever have that nagging feeling that something’s off in your relationship, but you can’t quite put your finger on it?

You’re not alone.

Sometimes, we settle for less than we deserve because we’re comfortable, or maybe we’re just afraid of being alone.

But deep down, you know when things aren’t right.

You can feel it in those quiet moments when you wonder if you could be happier with someone else.

As a relationship expert, I’m here to help you recognize the red flags you might be overlooking.

Today, we’re diving into seven signs that you’re in a relationship with the wrong person—and why you deserve better.

Let’s get into it.

1) Constant criticism

A healthy relationship is built on mutual respect and admiration.

When you’re with the right person, they’ll appreciate you for who you are—flaws and all.

They’ll uplift you, encourage you, and work through your shortcomings together.

However, if you find that your partner is constantly criticizing you, belittling your achievements, or making you feel inadequate, it’s a sign that you’re in the wrong relationship.

This is well backed up by research; renowned researcher John Gottman has identified criticism as one of the top predictors of divorce.

He has noted:

 “My research shows that if your discussion begins with a harsh startup(criticism), it will inevitably end on a negative note.

“Statistics tell the story: 96% of the time, you can predict the outcome of a conversation based on the first three minutes of the interaction.”

Love shouldn’t make you feel small or unworthy.

It’s about growing together, not tearing each other down.

Criticism can be constructive when it’s delivered with kindness and good intentions, but when it’s used as a tool to control or demean you, it’s a red flag that shouldn’t be ignored.

You deserve a partner who loves and respects you just as you are. 

2) You’re always walking on eggshells

Ever felt like you’re constantly on edge, afraid to say or do the wrong thing?

That’s a sure sign something isn’t right.

In my years as a relationship counselor, I’ve seen this pattern way too often.

It’s like you’re walking on a tightrope, constantly balancing between peace and an impending argument.

Relationships should give you a sense of comfort and security, not anxiety.

You should be able to express your thoughts and feelings without the fear of setting off a landmine.

Are you constantly treading carefully around your partner? If so, it might be time to think about whether this is the love you deserve. 

3) You’re always the one making sacrifices

A relationship is a partnership, a two-way street. It requires give and take from both parties.

But if you find that you’re always the one making sacrifices, bending over backward to please your partner, and feeling exhausted in the process, it’s a warning sign.

In my book, Breaking The Attachment: How To Overcome Codependency in Your Relationship, I delve into how an imbalance of power can lead to codependency.

You start losing yourself, your interests, and your goals in life to keep the relationship afloat.

That’s not a healthy relationship, my dear reader.

A relationship should enhance your life, not drain it.

You deserve a love that is equal, reciprocal, and fulfilling.

4) You’re happier when they’re not around

When you’re in love, your partner’s presence should bring you joy, comfort, and peace.

You should look forward to spending time with them.

But what if it’s the opposite? What if you find yourself feeling relieved, lighter, and even happier when they’re not around?

That’s not a sign to overlook.

It might be a hard pill to swallow, but it’s crucial to acknowledge such feelings.

If you’re happier when your partner is away, it could mean that their presence is causing you more stress than joy—and that is certainly not what love should feel like.

Relationships should add to your happiness, not subtract from it. 

5) Your gut is telling you something’s not right

One thing I’ve learned from my years as a relationship expert is to never underestimate the power of intuition.

Your gut feelings, that little voice inside of you, is often your subconscious picking up on cues and red flags that your conscious mind might be ignoring.

If deep down, something feels off about your relationship, don’t brush it aside.

Your intuition might be trying to tell you something important.

Whether it’s a conversation that didn’t sit right, actions that don’t match words, or just a persistent feeling of unease—pay attention.

Trusting your intuition doesn’t mean you’re overreacting or paranoid.

It means you’re listening to yourself, and that’s the first step towards ensuring your happiness..

6) You’re holding on because you’re afraid of being alone

This is a tough one, but it’s vital to address.

Sometimes, we stay in relationships that aren’t right for us simply because we’re scared of being alone.

We cling to the familiar, even if it’s hurting us, because the fear of the unknown is too great.

This is widely acknowledged by experts.

For instance, Roxy Zarrabi, Psy.D., a clinical psychologist, recently noted in a Psychology Today post how the fear of being alone can lead you to stay in unhealthy relationships.

But here’s the raw and honest truth: Being alone can be a thousand times better than being with the wrong person.

Being alone gives you the chance to rediscover yourself, to heal and to grow.

It opens up the possibility of meeting the right person—someone who truly values and loves you for who you are.

If fear of loneliness is the main thing keeping you in your relationship, it might be time to reassess.

It’s okay to choose yourself, it’s okay to step into the unknown, and it’s okay to be alone.

7) You’re staying for the potential, not the reality

Here’s one we often overlook. 

When I was younger, I remember staying in a relationship because I was in love with the person my partner could be, not the person they were.

This is now something I see often in my work as a relationship expert.

Are you in love with the potential of your partner or their reality?

As the wise Maya Angelou once said, “When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time.”

Don’t lose yourself waiting for someone to become who you want them to be.

Conclusion

Recognizing that you’re in a relationship with the wrong person can be painful and challenging.

But as with many things, acknowledging the truth is the first step towards finding the happiness you deserve.

I hope these signs have given you some food for thought. 

For more insights and guidance on navigating relationships and overcoming codependency, check out my book, Breaking The Attachment: How To Overcome Codependency in Your Relationship!