Frequently Asked Questions: Relationship Stages

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

Psychologists describe different phases that couples typically go through in a relationship. Some of these phases are common and even expected—although they can also be challenging. That said, not every couple experiences every phase the same way. Still, understanding where you currently stand in your relationship can help you gain clarity and make it easier to navigate more difficult seasons.

Getting to Know Each Other 🔍

This is the phase where you gradually discover more about one another. Usually, you see the other person in a very positive light—after all, they clearly stand out from others and seem special.
And of course, you tend to show your best side too 😉.
You start to learn about each other’s character, values, and life goals. This is also the time when you may still be deciding whether you’re truly a good match and want to walk through life together.

Peace, Joy, and Sunshine ☀️

This is a time filled with happiness, hope, and love.
The early stages of falling in love can feel intense—your thoughts are often with the other person, you feel butterflies in your stomach, and your emotions run high. While these moments may not last forever or feel equally strong every day, they are still precious times that give your relationship energy and joy.

It can be helpful to remember what made this time special:
Are there favourite places or shared experiences—like a park bench, a restaurant, or dancing together—that you can revisit and cherish as a couple?

Everyday Life 🍃

Creating a healthy rhythm in daily life can be a challenge. Whether it’s raising children, balancing demanding jobs, or managing illness or caregiving responsibilities—daily life takes up most of your time together.
That’s why it’s important to be intentional: support each other and carve out time as a couple.
Good communication, planning, and shared routines can go a long way in strengthening your partnership.

Relationship or Life Crises ⚡️

Even though we’d rather avoid them, most people experience tough seasons in life. These are often not caused by our own actions—they’re things that come from outside and still require a personal response.

If one of you is going through something heavy, your partner will feel it too. Often, it shifts over time—sometimes one of you needs more support, sometimes the other.

Maybe you’re currently in a difficult phase as a couple—something that challenges you deeply or even shakes the foundation of your relationship.
In such times, it’s especially important to treat both yourself and your partner with patience and compassion.
It can also be a great help to seek outside support—through trusted friends or professional counselling.

👉 Read more: First Aid in Relationship Crises

Deep Connection and Mature Love 💕

A feeling of deep closeness and connection goes far beyond the early thrill of being in love. It’s often a sign of a more mature relationship—one in which both partners have shared milestones and overcome challenges together.

By now, you’ve likely seen each other in a variety of situations. You truly know what you have in each other. The relationship becomes a “home”—a space where strengths and weaknesses are accepted and held with love.

Even though everyday life may seem less exciting than the early days, the idea of being without the other person feels unthinkable.
In this kind of relationship, both people give each other support and the freedom to grow individually.

What matters now: Never take one another for granted.
Be intentional in how you express your love, stay attentive, and show your partner regularly how much they mean to you.