The end of a relationship honeymoon can be challenging.
Here are some things to look forward to after the honeymoon phase.
The honeymoon phase is a magical time. Your partner is perfect and can do no wrong, the excitement of spending time together with them, friends and family take a backseat and the world is a screen to display your affection. You likely fantasise about your future and get butterflies at every turn.
Who wants to lose that? Most people would say no.
Before we discuss the beauty and the end of the honeymoon phase, let’s talk about what affects the timeline of this phase.
This phase can last a few months or years depending on the relationship dynamics and time spent together.
It could last longer for long-distance couples and shorter for couples who see each other often. It doesn’t mean the love is less or stronger, it just takes different periods for the newness to fade.
It could end the moment you have a big argument that reveals red flags. But it typically happens over time.
How to prolong the honeymoon phase
Making this phase longer depends on the mental and emotional health of each partner. When each partner is working on their health, self, and communication this phase can last longer.
It also depends on self-care, because the way you feel about yourself can affect how you connect with your partner. Having a healthy relationship with yourself, prioritising hobbies, and friendships, among other personal matters, can make you more fortified for a longer honeymoon.
Three things to look forward to when the honeymoon ends
The end of that blissful time doesn’t have to be nerve-wracking. It certainly doesn’t mean the relationship has run its course. In fact, it could mean the beginning of an exciting time to build a relationship.
You see what your relationship will be like
When the butterflies, novelty, and magical dates wind down, you get a good sense of the person you’re with. You get to see what your life would be like with this person. Who they are when they are not trying to woo you or how you like spending time with them on a normal day.
You may not have pleasant results, but this will only help you save time by leaving the relationship or show you how to improve. If they are good results, then you have a preview of the rest of your beautiful life.
You see flaws and accept them
Your idealised partner becomes human with his/her flaws and you stop needing them to be perfect. They also notice your flaws as you stop hiding. Rather than seeing your flaws or theirs as an obstacle, you accept them and integrate them with their strengths. Or you may decide if they are too much for you and leave which can be a form of acceptance rather than trying to change them.
That being said, being loved with your flaws and strengths is beautiful!
A new phase of your relationship starts
Healthy and long-lasting relationships require more than the honeymoon phase to endure. After the honeymoon phase, you can build intimacy, mutual respect, and communication and have more milestones to look forward to. As you build memories and go through relationship trials, your bond will be stronger than the fleeting butterflies and any sexual attraction.
