10 habits that could be really bad for your relationship

Nag, nag nagging

Your partner may ALWAYS forget to do something around the house but nagging isn’t going to make things any better.

Instead of demanding things in a nagging tone, try a more positive approach. Reward good behaviour (like you would a child), ask kindly and don't assume your partner knows what you want if you haven't asked.

Avoiding conflict

Never fighting or failing to bring up issues that are bothering you is a relationship time bomb. When you’re concerned about something it won’t just go away if you ignore it – just like a bump in the carpet it will pop up somewhere else. Remember, it’s normal and healthy for couples to disagree from time to time. As long as you argue constructively and are able to compromise and move ahead, it’s actually good for your relationship.

Playing the drama queen

Losing your temper, crying or storming out every time something doesn’t go your way will soon wear thin with. Instead of throwing a strop and flouncing out, sit down and talk through your problems. It takes far less energy than slamming doors and throwing tantrums.

Being possessive and clingy

During the honeymoon period it’s nice to do everything together, but you need room to breathe. Everyone needs some time alone and some time with other friends. Encourage your partner to go out with friends and make sure you keep up your friendships.

Being sarcastic

While you can pass the odd sarcastic quip off as a joke, there is often a deep seated hostility towards your partner at play behind the persistent use of sarcasm to put your partner down. If you want your relationship to flourish it’s time to look inwards and work out why you’re behaving this way before it’s too late. You might find your partner starts to push you away or avoids spending time with you out of fear and anger – being on the receiving end of sarcasm can be especially wearing.

Drinking too much

A nice relaxing glass of wine after a hard day’s work is one thing, but if one or both of you find yourselves drinking until you’re legless most nights, it’s a clear signal something’s not right between you and that you’re using alcohol to mask the shortcomings of the relationship. Unnecessary flare-ups are inevitable when there’s too much booze involved. Nobody wants to date a drunk so sober up or seek professional help before it’s too late to salvage things.

Overspending

Money can be a bone of contention whether you’re being supported by your partner or are the main breadwinner in the relationship. Exceeding your budget on a regular basis shows a lack of respect for your partner while showing off by flashing your cash when they don’t have as much to spend can easily cause resentment. So watch your wallet.

• Snoooping

  Snooping your partner's Facebook or email account, checking the phone for illicit texts and constantly being jealous will drive you seriously nuts. You just can’t live your life in a state of constant fear.

  If your partner has cheated on you in the past you need to ask yourself if you truly trust him to be faithful or end things. If you’re just insecure talk to him about how you feel and he should be able to reassure you. Snooping is not the way to solve this problem.