Frequently Asked Questions: Relationship Stages

Which Phase Are We In? What to Do When Things Get Difficult

Psychology describes several typical phases that couples may go through during the course of a relationship.
Some of these are common stages that many couples recognise—and they can sometimes be demanding.
However, not every couple will experience every phase in the same way.
Still, having a sense of where you currently stand can provide clarity and help you navigate difficult times more gracefully.

Getting to Know Each Other 🔍

This is the phase where you gradually get to know one another better.
Often, the other person seems especially appealing—something about them sets them apart and makes them feel unique.
You also tend to present your best self 😉.
During this time, you begin to discover each other’s values, traits, and long-term goals.
This is also the phase where you might still be deciding whether you’re truly compatible and want to share life together.

Peace, Joy, and Sunshine ☀️

This stage is marked by feelings of happiness, optimism, and love.
In the early days of falling in love, hormones are active and emotions are heightened—you think about each other constantly, you feel that familiar flutter in your stomach...
Even though these moments might not last forever or feel equally strong every day, they’re precious memories that can carry you through everyday life.

It’s worth remembering what made that time so special:
Are there favourite places or shared rituals—like your favourite café, dancing together, or sitting by the lake—that you could return to now and then?

Everyday Life 🍃

Finding a healthy balance in day-to-day life can be challenging.
Whether it’s raising children, managing demanding careers, or dealing with illness or caring for a loved one—daily routines take up a great deal of time.

That’s why it’s important to shape your everyday life as a team: support one another, and make space for time together.
Good planning and clear agreements can be very helpful here.

Crises – as a Couple or in Life ⚡️

As much as we might wish to avoid them, everyone faces difficult seasons.
These are often not of our own making—but still require a response.

When one of you is going through a tough time, your partner will inevitably feel it too.
Sometimes it’s one who needs more strength and support—sometimes the other.

You may even find yourselves in a phase where your relationship itself is being tested.
In such times, it’s crucial to treat both yourself and your partner with care and gentleness.
Seeking support—from trusted friends or professional counsellors—can be a valuable step.

👉 Read more: First Aid in Relationship Crises

Deep Connection and Mature Love 💕

A sense of deep closeness and emotional connection goes beyond the excitement of early love.
It often reflects a mature relationship—one in which partners have achieved milestones together and weathered life’s storms side by side.

By now, you’ve likely seen one another in many different situations. You know what you mean to each other.
The relationship becomes a secure and loving space—a “home” where both strengths and weaknesses are welcomed.

Even if life feels more routine than it once did, the thought of being without the other seems unimaginable.
In such a partnership, both people offer strength and the freedom to grow individually.

What matters most now: Don’t take one another for granted.
Show appreciation, stay attentive, and keep finding ways to express your love.