What happens when the honeymoon phase of a romantic relationship fades away? There's no set amount of weeks or months to mark exactly when a short-term relationship becomes long-term, so how will you know when you and your significant other have made the transition? Here are some noteworthy occurrences I've observed in my own four-year relationship.
1. You stop worrying about appearances.
Over time, your partner will see you at your best and at your worst. Dressing up every time you see each other becomes an unnecessary hassle, so old t-shirts and sweatpants it is!
2. Dates become cheap, stay in and hang out sessions.
The cliché dinner-and-movie date night is great once in awhile, and outdoor adventures are exciting, but both my wallet and my stamina appreciate simply staying in to test a new recipe, kick back with some meme-filled Youtube videos and enjoy each other's presence.
3. You let your weird out.
Learning what kind of person your partner is outside of the public eye also means getting to know all their strange quirks and habits, as well as revealing your quirks and habits, which can initially be terrifying. Will they judge me for wearing socks with my sandals? How can I ever live with someone who puts mayonnaise on their cheeseburgers?? But you'll learn to love and accept each other all the same.
4. The inside jokes are endless.
And the constantly confused looks on your friends’ faces make them even better.
5. You have tons of each other's stuff (intentionally and unintentionally).
I frequent my boyfriend's place often enough that I just leave extra bathroom essentials and clothes there. I have his jacket hanging in my closet for him to use. Our personal belongings get shared between one another all the time, or accidentally left over from week-long visits. I can't even count the number of socks I've lost in his bedroom.
6. You become invested in each other's interests.
Knowing what makes your S.O. happy will help you understand what kind of person they are and give you interesting things to talk about. Making an active effort to learn about their interests also shows that you're sincerely interested in them, as well! And their passion can sometimes develop into your own passion!
7. You understand that arguments are not the end of the world.
Even the healthiest relationships are not completely argument-free. There will always be skirmishes here and there when you encounter an off day or a difference in opinions. The fights will happen, but instead of freaking out, thinking that you've ruined your relationship forever, you know they are only small bumps in the road. You'll both cool down eventually and work out a resolution in your own way because, in the end, your love for each other will outweigh the situational anger.
8. You know how to read each other without words.
A moment of eye contact is all you need to know what’s up. Or the two of you happen to be well-versed in telepathic communication. Nobody will ever know.
Speaking of communication...
9. You talk openly with one another.
A healthy long-term relationship thrives on respect, trust and open communication, so it's a good sign when you've reached the point where you can share your deepest feelings with your partner and vice versa. It helps you understand each other better, support each other and strengthens your bond so that you're unafraid to share your woes and worries when necessary.
10. They become your best friend.
The title of "best friend" doesn't have to be mutually exclusive with “significant other.” My boyfriend is more than just a dude I occasionally kiss and snuggle with. He's become the person I want to share life's joys and struggles with. The one who I turn to whenever I feel depressed. The one who understands me more than my other friends and family ever will. The one who accepts my faults and loves my imperfections, because they make me who I am. And that's what makes a long-term relationship so beautiful.
