21 Marked Signs Your Marriage Is Over & Past the Point of No Return

Ending a marriage is not a simple decision and for that reason, it is often put off. Knowing the signs your marriage is over can help you walk away with dignity and grace.

Entering a marriage is a serious decision and leaving one may be even more so. Leaving a marriage isn’t something you decide to do on a whim. Sometimes, you need to understand and learn the signs your marriage is over, not as a doomsday prophecy but to know when to call it quits if you ever reach that point of no return.

It takes time, thought, and communication to figure out if your marriage can be salvaged.

I know salvaged probably isn’t a word you want to hear when thinking about your marriage but even the biggest messes can become a solid partnership, with work and the right kind of effort. But, the question is, are you beyond the work?

Whether you’ve done counseling and tried to make things work without success or you haven’t and things just feel wrong, wondering if your marriage is over isn’t easy. 

If you’ve come to that point, I’m sorry. Ending a marriage is never an enjoyable experience, no matter how right of a decision it may end up being. But, knowing the signs your marriage is over can help you make sense of it so you can move forward with your life.

[Read: The subtle signs of a loveless, unhappy marriage]

All marriages are different

Like most relationship advice, this is not one size fits all. There are hundreds of reasons you may want to end a marriage and all of those could be meaningless to someone else.

Before offering you warning signs your marriage is over, keep in mind that this is a decision to be made between you and your spouse. Whether you notice these signs or not, it isn’t a definitive reason to end your marriage. Imagine saying, “I ended my marriage because an article said there were signs.” A little weird, right?

Ending a marriage takes a lot of time and energy, much like sustaining a marriage, and you will not come to that decision lightly whether this article helps you or not. [Read: The ridiculous myths people believe about marriage]

It’s hard to admit to ourselves when our marriage is over

These signs your marriage is over for you could mean that it is time to file for divorce or reassess your relationship or even take a break. 

It makes sense that you may not want to admit that your marriage is over. We tend to cling to comfort and familiarity even if we’re unhappy. We would rather stay in a loveless marriage than not know what we’re coming home to at the end of the day.

Fearing change, especially such a big change is understandable. But, when that fear prevents you from facing the facts it prevents you from moving on with your life. 

Whether you need to communicate with your partner to make things better or take some time apart, it is so important to know when your marriage is over or hopefully, before.

Making rash decisions from a list written by someone who doesn’t know you or your precise situation won’t do you any good. I advise you to take this list as guidance rather than gospel when it comes to deciding whether or not your marriage is over. [Read: 13 secrets of a happy marriage that can make or break your romance]

The hard signs your marriage is over you need to look for

I do not take this topic lightly as I’m sure you don’t. A marriage ending is nothing if not serious. Determining whether or not it is time for a divorce is important. If you wait too long to look for the signs your marriage is over, it may end in chaos rather than respect. And if you decide too early, you may regret it. 

If these signs your marriage is over ring true for you, it is probably time to reassess what your next step is.

#1 You never fight. Fighting might seem like what would end a marriage and in some cases, yes, it can. But when you never fight about anything, it is an equally bad sign. A lacking of fighting shows a lack of care. 

When you want your partner to see your point or agree with you, it is because you care what they think. When you don’t put in the effort to communicate, especially when you disagree, it signifies an absence of effort. [Read: Why fighting in a relationship is important and how to do it right]

#2 You just want to be right. Who doesn’t want to be right? Well, no one, but when being right takes over being happy in your relationship, there is a reason for this.

It isn’t that you want your partner to admit you’re right but that you can’t see any other alternative, no matter the issue at hand. If you both want to be right over wanting to be happy together it shows a major disconnect in your connection.

#3 You’re always angry. Separate from what some romantic comedies may have told you, anger is not synonymous with passion. You don’t have to fight and yell and be mad or bitter in order to tear each others’ clothes off. 

A relationship that is filled with anger for whatever reason lacks a level of understanding. Anger can be seen through resentment, cruelty, and more but if that is the main feeling you’re experiencing in your marriage, it is time to reassess. [Read: Are you happy? Here’s how to spot the signs of resentment in a relationship]

#4 Intimacy is long gone. It is normal for even the healthiest relationships to have ruts. But when your marriage has lacked any romantic intimacy for longer than a few weeks, it is a sign that not only have neither of you made an effort to remedy the situation, but may not want to. 

Intimacy isn’t just about sex either. If you’re not holding hands, cuddling on the couch, or even kissing each other goodbye when you leave for work, those small gestures take away a large portion of a happy and healthy marriage.

#5 You feel alone. There is nothing more isolating than feeling alone or lonely when you’re in a relationship, especially a marriage. Feeling like you’re going through life as a single person although you share a home, a name, and a life with someone else shows that this has been a long time coming.

You aren’t just having a bad day when you feel this way, you haven’t been able to have the support of your marriage in a long time. [Read: The revealing truths about feeling alone in a relationship]

#6 You’re trying too hard. Some may say there is no such thing, but there is. When you’re married, you shouldn’t have to change who you are or do things you don’t want to do, to get attention from your spouse.

If you or your partner is putting in extended efforts that are not being met equally, it is a sign that your marriage is over for at least one of you.

#7 You’ve grown apart. Next to infidelity, growing apart is one of the leading causes of divorce according to Psychology Today. Growing apart is something that doesn’t have to have the anger and drama of a televised divorce. This is something that simply happens over time as the members of the marriage change and grow without the other.

If you feel you’ve hit a new stage of your life without your partner or vice versa, it can be hard to come back from that. You can’t be expected to wait for them to catch up or speed down to meet their pace. When you grow away from each other instead of closer, it can be hard to find your way back. [Read: 20 honest signs you two have been growing apart for a while now]

#8 The respect is lost. Respect is something you rarely see from divorced couples in movies. You always see petty comments and eye rolls. This isn’t always the case when it comes to a marriage ending, but when that does happen, it isn’t just for comedic relief.

When you find yourself making jokes at your spouse’s expense, in front of them or not, you’ve lost a level of respect for them. Without respect, it is near impossible to make a marriage work. Respect is the foundation of any solution and without it, you just have bitter close-mindedness.

#9 The trust is broken. Broken trust, although it can be rebuilt, is often the last straw for a couple. When you stop trusting your partner due to lying, cheating, or another betrayal, you lose so much of a relationship. 

You don’t go to them for advice or comfort or even to vent about work. When there is no longer trust, the marriage has lost a huge piece of its foundation and won’t last without immense work. [Read: 25 signs of disrespect in a marriage that should never be tolerated]

#10 The rough patch is not ending. All marriages have rough patches. Even the happiest elderly couples who don’t regret a day will tell you they have rough patches. These can go on for days or weeks or even months, but when you see no light ahead, it can be a sign that this isn’t a rough patch.

A rough patch is often kicked off by a particular event, but when time doesn’t calm things down and you can’t come back from it, the rough patch leads to a deeper issue that can very easily lead to divorce.

#11 You attack instead of communicate. Communication is key. I’m sure you’ve heard that more than once before. The thing about communication is that it is about comprehension. If you are upset your partner did something, you discuss it. 

But, when that discussion is an attack, it doesn’t benefit you or the marriage. When you accuse your partner or blame them rather than working with them on the same team, things stop being about your relationship and start being about you. This is where the anger begins and respect tends to slide. [Read: Communication exercises and easy games to help you two communicate better]

#12 You’ve stopped making decisions together. Whether you stopped talking about what color to paint a room, what plans to make for the weekend, or what job to take, this shows a lack of mutual connection or awareness. When you go from an ‘us’ to a ‘me’ or an ‘I’, it shows that you are taking on the role of a single person. 

Not only does this mean your marriage is no longer a priority, but signals that you are already starting to live the life of someone who isn’t married. 

#13 You avoid each other. Avoidance is a pretty intense sign that a marriage is truly on its last legs. If you are so fed up with your spouse that you avoid them at all costs, there isn’t much to work on.

If you aren’t fighting, talking, or even sharing glances across the breakfast table, the foundation of the marriage to build off of has already dwindled. [Read: How to start over in a relationship and rediscover the love you lost]

#14 Others have noticed. No matter how good you may be at hiding your most personal issues, if your friends or family have noticed a shift in your mood or relationship, that is often a sign it is time to make a change.

Whether that change is therapy or separation may not be clear yet, but if the difficulties in your marriage are seeping into your life outside of that relationship, it is time to give it some serious attention. 

#15 You reach out to others over your spouse. Your spouse, although not capable of fulfilling every need you have, should be someone you can go to with good or bad news. They are there to comfort you and celebrate with you. But, if you have started going to someone else for these moments, it shows a disconnect.

Whether you reach out to a friend, a coworker, or family member, replacing that important role in your life says that something is missing and it won’t be found by doing what you’re doing now. [Read: 18 ways you could be having an emotional affair with someone without realising it]

#16 You daydream about a future without them. I’m sure even people in happy marriages have dreams about leaving the responsibilities of marriage to ride off into the sunset with their celebrity crush. But if a realistic future without your spouse is at the front of your mind, it isn’t a good sign that your marriage has potential. 

Daydreaming and even planning a future where you can travel or move across the country without your spouse shows that you not only want that future, but have loose plans to make it happen.

#17 It feels too late to change things. When you or your spouse feel hopeless, there isn’t much that can be done to remedy that. If only one of you sees a chance for the marriage to work or be saved, there is a good chance it won’t be. 

A marriage needs both people to want to work for it and believe it can be saved. [Read: The one year itch and 25 ways to solve the big issues early on]

#18 You blame each other. When neither part of a couple is willing to take responsibility for the end of the marriage or even the issues that have come up, it can be hard, if not impossible to come back from. Being able to apologize for your mistakes and forgive them for theirs is a huge part of saving a marriage. 

Without that, fixing the marriage doesn’t seem doable.

#19 Infidelity. Although many marriages come back from affairs to thrive for years, this isn’t the case most often. Infidelity is a betrayal that is on a different level than many other things that can happen in a marriage. It goes against the most basic marriage vow and many people cannot get past that.

I’m not saying your marriage is hopeless if there has been infidelity, but it certainly isn’t a good sign. [Read: How to survive infidelity without tearing apart]

#20 You tried therapy. If you have both tried marriage counseling and put the effort in without success, it may be time to cut ties. Hopefully, therapy gave you some insight and will help you end things on the best of terms, but if you have exhausted all options, don’t look at a divorce as a defeat but simply a step in the right direction.

#21 There is abuse. When there is mental, emotional, or physical abuse in a marriage I don’t recommend looking for reasons to stay. When these things arise, escaping them, even admitting that they’re happening, is hard enough. 

Trying to forgive and remedy marital abuse is not unheard of, but my first suggestion would be to leave before it gets worse. Abuse is the last sign your marriage is over. [Read: Am I in an abusive relationship? Here’s what you need to look for]

How to accept your marriage is over

Even if you read through this list and felt a familiarity with these signs your marriage is over, it can be hard to come to terms with such a decision. 

My best piece of advice would be this – Look at your future if things continue as they are, and look at your future if you accept your marriage is over. And pick the outcome you can live with. 

[Read: The top 20 reasons for divorce most couple always overlook]

Knowing the signs your marriage is over may not convince you to file divorce paperwork but it may inspire you to look ahead to a happier outcome.

The post 21 Marked Signs Your Marriage Is Over & Past the Point of No Return is the original content of LovePanky - Your Guide to Better Love and Relationships.

How to Know If She is The One: 32 Signs to Instantly Know for Sure

When you meet a special girl who makes your heart beat faster, you need to understand how to know if she is The One, so she doesn’t slip away!

There is no such thing as a perfect relationship. Even the most together couples have their disagreements. Look at Will Smith and Jada Pinkett-Smith! They’re one of the most together couples in Hollywood, but even they had their rough patch. Because of this, it’s often hard to know whether the person you’re so taken with is really the one or not.

If you’re loved up but sometimes things don’t go well, take heart in the fact that arguments and disagreements are normal. If anything, they’re also healthy.

It’s not good to constantly agree on everything, and healthy disagreements can help to develop the relationship to a higher level. However, if you’re always bickering and you’re wondering how to know if she is The One, that could be a sign that things aren’t quite on track.

The best way to understand whether the girl you’re with is the right one for you or not is to know the real signs. However, also be aware that every couple, even the most together ones, have their ups and downs too.

[Read: Don’t push away a girl who shows these signs she really, really cares about you]

What does it mean to be ‘The One’?

Before we delve into the signs for how to know if she is The One, let’s first look at what it actually means.

If someone is The One, it basically means that they’re someone you could see yourself spending your life with. It doesn’t mean there is only one single person for everyone on the planet however.

There are people who fall in love and are extremely compatible, but things happen and they go their separate ways over time. That person may then meet someone else and fall in love again, but in a slightly different way.

For that reason, I don’t believe there’s only one person for everyone but I do believe that you can tell whether someone is serious future material by assessing your connection. [Read: 35 really important questions to ask a girl you just met]

How to know if she is The One doesn’t come down to a tick list of items, it comes down to a sense that this is someone who you really could see yourself growing and developing with.

No relationship is ever the finished article, and there will always be challenges along the way. If you’re able to come through them together and work as a team to make things better, that’s the biggest and best sign there is. [Read: The 16 secrets to a perfectly happy relationship]

How to know if she is The One – The 17 signs to remember

What to learn how to know if she is The One? Check out these 17 signs and see how many you can nod along to.

#1 You want to share everything with her. This doesn’t mean you’re constantly going to spill the contents of your mind to her, but you want to share your thoughts and feelings with her, and she often does the same with you. When you meet The One, you don’t want to hold things back.

#2 You see your future with her. When learning how to know if she is The One, this is probably the biggest sign of them all. Do you see your future with her? If you can see yourselves together when you’re old and grey, you’re onto something good! [Read: 12 key moments in a relationship that predict your future together]

#3 She supports you through thick and thin. A strong and supportive woman is the ideal life partner. She will be there for you through whatever life throws at you and always be your biggest cheerleader.

#4 You think she would be a great life partner. Not only do you see her in your future but you think she would make a great partner for life too. How can you tell? She’s not only supportive but she’s also willing to work to make your relationship better. You can laugh together, you can cry together, and she’s a partner in more than the usual sense.

#5 Whenever something happens, she’s the one you want to talk to. Good or bad, whenever something happens in your life, she’s the one you want to reach out and speak to about it. You trust her advice and she always makes you feel better. How to know if she is the one? She’s your trusted confidant. [Read: The clearest signs she’s ready for a real relationship and is serious about you]

#6 You argue, but you work through it. Let’s not kid ourselves and say that you’re never going to argue or never have disagreements, because you will. However, those arguments don’t last long and you’re both willing to work through them to solve the problem. There are no grudges and no long periods of silent treatment.

#7 You can communicate with each other easily. How to know if she is the one comes down to so many elements but if you can communicate freely with each other and you don’t feel embarrassed or worried to speak to her, you’ve met someone who understands you on a deeper level.

#8 She makes you want to be better. This is probably one of the biggest signs you’ve met The One. Being with her makes you want to do better and be better, for yourself and for her. She makes you strive to meet your potential and be the best partner you can be. [Read: Wifey material – 25 clear signs she’s more than just dating material]

#9 You’d do anything to make her smile. Her smile brightens up your day and when she’s happy, you’re happy. Of course, when she’s sad, it makes you feel down and off-kilter too. This isn’t just about showing empathy, this is about having that strong connection.

#10 You can’t imagine your life without her. When you picture your life, she’s in it and you can’t imagine it being any other way. The sheer thought of her not being around makes you feel down, sad, and perhaps even scared.

#11 You don’t dream of other women. This doesn’t mean you’re never going to find another woman attractive in your life, because that’s unrealistic. But it means you’d never dream of doing anything about it because you’d never want to hurt her in that way. How to know if she is the one means committing yourself totally. [Read: How to avoid temptation and remain faithful to the one you love]

#12 She accepts everything about you, good and bad. And of course, you do the same for her. Nobody is perfect and if she isn’t concerned about your weaknesses and focuses more on your strengths, that means she’s accepted you completely. It’s a wonderful feeling.

#13 You’re both willing to apologize when you’re wrong. When two people aren’t meant for each other, there is often pride standing in the way. That means if you’re arguing, you’re not going to want to apologize to make things better. If the opposite true, she’s possibly The One.

#14 You put each other first. You want to make sure she’s okay and she does the same for you. As a result, you always consider each other’s feelings and you put one another first.

#15 Your feelings go beyond sex. At the start of a relationship, everything is passionate and it’s all about bedroom time. As the relationship develops, of course, sex is still important but it’s not all about that.

#16 Life is better when she is around. When she is around you, you feel calm and happy. Life is far more enjoyable when she is beside you and you’re doing things together. Of course, you can’t be side by side 100% of the time, but when you are, things are great. [Read: Do I really love her? 25 signs that’ll give you the real answer]

#17 You’re partners in everything. How to know if she is The One? You’re a team and you do the important things in life side by side, together, as a solid unit. That means you succeed and fail as one and you’re always there for one another whenever needed.

15 subtle signs she’s really not The One

You’ve learned how to know if she is The One, but what about signs that she’s really not the right one for you? These signs might be subtle, but they’re powerful!

#1 You regularly misunderstand each other and communication is difficult. You find it hard to communicate and you often find that you take things the wrong way or misunderstand one another. It simply feels difficult.

#2 She just doesn’t ‘get’ you. You get the sense of not being understood or totally accepted and there are things about her that you don’t really understand fully either. [Read: 20 signs of a bad girlfriend and easy ways to spot them instantly]

#3 It’s often just about sex. If you take sex out of the equation, what is left? That’s a strong question to answer and if you can’t give a clear answer or you feel nothing special would be left, that’s a pretty strong sign.

#4 You don’t have a lot in common. Whilst opposites can sometimes attract, you do need a certain amount of common ground. If you’re struggling to find that, you’re going to struggle to understand each other.

#5 She regularly calls out the things she doesn’t like about you. It’s not possible to love everything about a person, but you can accept it. If she’s not willing to do that, she’s not The One. [Read: The types of bad girlfriends who’ll make your life a living hell]

#6 Her eccentricities are a little annoying to you. You’re supposed to find her eccentricities cute and part of who she is, but if you just find them annoying, that’s not the greatest sign for longevity.

#7 Your values aren’t aligned. This is a huge problem. If your values aren’t in alignment, your relationship is never going to make it. You can have slightly different values, but in the end, they have to match up in some way.

#8 You both want totally different things. Life is going to take you down different paths in the end and that means you’re going to face heartbreak at some point in the future. When you both want different things, you’re either going to drift or one of you is going to have to compromise far too much. [Read: The things to know before getting engaged that can make or break you]

#9 When you picture the future, you’re not sure if she’s in it. That’s pretty obvious, right? How to know if she is The One means you see her in your future. If you picture it and she’s not there or you’re not sure, things don’t look good.

#10 You look at your friends’ relationships and find yours lacking. Firstly, never compare relationships but if you often feel that yours just doesn’t fulfill you in the same way that theirs seem to fulfill them, you have to question why.

#11 You often forget the small things about each other. Birthdays, middle names, favorite colors, important milestones, these are all things which people remember about one another when they’re connected. Sure, we sometimes forget but if it’s regular, that means you’re not paying attention for some reason. [Read: Am I being taken for granted by my girl? 16 subtle ways to know for sure]

#12 Your connection is lacking and people notice it. People often tell you that you just don’t seem that together and when you analyze it, you do feel that your connection isn’t as strong as it could be. Do you work on it, or do you realize it’s not meant to be?

#13 You often find yourself defending your relationship. Your nearest and dearest want the best for you and if they often voice their concerns about your relationship, you may find yourself constantly defending it. Why is that?

#14 You don’t have long conversations. Nobody wants to sit and have a full-on conversation all the time. But if you can’t remember the last time you did, you’re not communicating well. [Read: Lack of communication in a relationship and why it signals the end]

#15 You often think about what it would be like if you split up. It’s not the best sign if you often wonder what your life would be like if you split up. If that’s a regular feature, you’re not invested.  

[Read: The clearest signs she is falling in love with you and is hoping for something serious]

Learning how to know if she is The One means thinking about many different things and piecing the puzzle together. It doesn’t mean you’ll never face tough times, but if you’re able to come through them together, that’s a great sign.

The post How to Know If She is The One: 32 Signs to Instantly Know for Sure is the original content of LovePanky - Your Guide to Better Love and Relationships.

How to Get a Guy to Like You: 26 Super Moves that Drive Men Crazy

Wanting to know how to get a guy to like you is something ladies have been wondering since the beginning of time, but it isn’t all that complicated.

Guys may be more complicated than we give them credit for, but getting a guy to like you isn’t as hard as you might think.

You don’t have to follow rules from weird guys online who say that guys like this or that. If you want a guy to like you, it’s because you like him. You want him to like you, not some version of you.

If you want a guy to like you, it shouldn’t be from something made up or orchestrated. If you do that, which has been done, it won’t last. And if they don’t like whatever face you put on, you will never know if he actually would’ve liked the real you. 

With that being said, there is plenty you can do to catch his attention and get him to see you differently. 

You can’t force him to like you, but you can get a guy to take notice so that he has the chance to like you.

[Read: How to get any guy to notice you and fall hard for you]

Before you get a guy to like you – The things to keep in mind

I have plenty of really good ways for you to catch a guy’s attention and hopefully get him to like you, but before we go there let’s prepare.

If you are trying to get a guy to like you, you need to remain realistic. Just because you put in the effort doesn’t always mean it will work. 

This is the same advice I’d give a guy who wanted a girl to like him; don’t push. If he doesn’t like you, he doesn’t like you. Trying too hard and convincing him to like you is not worth it. You don’t want to have to argue your way into his heart. [Read: 20 very valid reasons why a guy may never like you back]

Your reason for existence isn’t to please or win over a guy

Sometimes, it just doesn’t happen. And remember it is okay for him not to like you. I know it may suck but not everyone will like you just as you won’t like every guy. It is normal and okay. 

There is nothing wrong with you, you just aren’t a match. Remember that getting a guy to like you won’t fulfill you. It won’t complete you. Getting a boyfriend shouldn’t be your only goal.

You are amazing as you are, yes, even single. Just because he doesn’t like you doesn’t say anything about you. 

Try to remember this. I know in the moment the rejection takes over and your ego takes a big hit, but you will find someone and they will like you, probably without you having to try so hard.

So, yes, I can help you learn how to get a guy to like you but remember you don’t need him to. [Read: Just being YOU – 15 unexpected things guys really love about girls]

How to get a guy to like you

Getting a guy to like you isn’t science, but it does require some trial and error. Not every guy is the same so these things will work differently for every guy. 

It also helps if you know him, so you get to make these things more personalized to him. If you don’t know him and want him to like you, get to know him. You might change your mind. [Read: How to really get to know a guy you want to date]

#1 Ask about him. Ask him questions. Even people who are private and shy like to talk about themselves. Ask him what he did over the weekend, what he’s binging, and more. Wanting to get to know him shows your interest and will make him comfortable talking to you.

#2 Compliment him. This is give-in but don’t just tell him he’s handsome, be more specific. Compliment him about things you’ve noticed more than his shirt. Compliment his ability, his talent, his positive attitude, etc. 

He’ll appreciate you complimenting him on something important and deeper than looks. [Read: 25 unique compliments for guys they’ll never ever forget]

#3 Don’t be perfect. Don’t try to act as if you’re perfect. You don’t need to act like you don’t get pimples or have bad hair days. Trying too hard to be sure you look amazing will only stress you out.

Also, don’t act like you have it all together. He will see through the facade, and if he doesn’t, you’re putting a lot of pressure on yourself.

#4 Touch him. I am not about touching without consent, so keep it G-rated. Lightly tap him when he makes you laugh or fix his lapel. Don’t be abrupt or make him uncomfortable, but a gentle touch, even something entirely platonic and acceptable, can ignite intimacy. [Read: How to flirt by touch without making it obvious at all]

#5 Smile.  Smiles are contagious. When you smile, he smiles. When you smile, you feel better. If he smiles around you because you smile around him, he will associate you with happy feelings. 

#6 Focus on yourself. Don’t let getting him to like you occupy your time. That will be completely transparent and isn’t healthy. Remember you have a full life outside this guy. Making him like you should not take over. Keep doing you. He will be more attracted to someone who is fulfilled in their life than someone desperate for his attention. [Read: The qualities men secretly crave in a woman they date]

#7 Make eye contact. Eye contact is scientifically proven to enhance a connection. Try not to look down when you talk to him. This shows insecurity. Instead, make eye contact. This shows your engagement and links you two without even talking. [Read: Prolonged eye contact when flirting – What it means and how to do it right]

#8 Ask for his help. Guys like to be needed. If you ask for his help with something like fixing the printer at work, to building a bookshelf, or hanging a mirror, he will like the feeling he gets from that. When he helps you, he will feel appreciated and remember you giving him that feeling. [Read: The damsel in distress and why men find them so irresistible]

#9 Remember what he shares. Don’t just ask him about himself so that he likes you. Ask him because you really want to know. And pay attention when he shares. If he mentions he has a pet, follow-up. If he said something about visiting his parents, ask about them. He will appreciate your attention.

#10 Say it when you disagree. you don’t have to be agreeable and docile to get a guy to like you. Guys or I should say, decent guys, want someone who has their own thoughts and opinions. Share those. Whether it is about politics or a TV show’s plot, having a discussion where you don’t agree brings you closer than you’d think.

#11 Be yourself. I know you hear this a lot, but it is so true. Don’t try to act funnier than you are or be more sophisticated than you are. Be who you are. Not only will you feel more comfortable which will lead to him feeling more comfortable, but if it works out, things will feel more natural. [Read: How to get guys to like you without ever compromising who you really are]

#12 Remember you are awesome without him. Your confidence is key. He will be able to tell if you are uncomfortable in your skin. If you are relying on his affections to fulfill you, instead of adding his affections to your own it will be clear. Remember what you are capable of, and focus on that when you’re with him.

#13 Tease him. Teasing is a great way to flirt. I’ve been doing it forever. Don’t hit below the belt but a gentle tease about his favorite sports team, TV show, or even his choice of footwear will work. Keep it light as to not offend him, but a little head-to-head will spark something. [Read: How to tease a guy and make him realize just how much he likes you]

#14 Ask about his passions. When a guy talks about what he is passionate about, he is excited. When you ask about those things and show genuine interest, it will please him. He will see that you are someone that supports what makes him happy. 

#15 Say his name. I know this seems silly but using his name when you’re talking to him is sure to catch his attention. It will boost his ego and then enhance that feeling when you’re around. [Read: Using his name and other sneaky moves to know when texting a guy to make him fall for you]

#16 Enjoy your life. People are drawn to people that make them happy. If you are miserable and complaining all the time, he may pull away. If you are enjoying your life, actually enjoying it, not just posting happy selfies online, he will pick up on that energy.

#17 Share your dreams. Don’t just let him talk about himself, talk about your passions and dreams too. Let him see what makes you tick. Let him get to know you. Let yourself be vulnerable. Letting him see a little more of you will give him insight into who you are beyond flirting. 

#18 Take your time. Don’t rush it. Getting a guy to like you isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon. Enjoy the process. Actually, get to know him while trying to gain his affections.

#19 Look your best. As much as looks shouldn’t reign supreme, they are important. But, it isn’t about showing cleavage or wearing tight clothes. It is about looking how you feel most comfortable. If you dress and look the way that makes you feel your best, you will emit a more positive and confident vibe. [Read: How to be sexy, look sexy and feel sexy without ever trying]

#20 Enjoy the moment. Don’t just think about getting him to like you or what it would be like to have him ask you out. Actually enjoy getting to know him. Have fun with him. Try to be in the moment instead of focusing on what might happen later.

#21 Don’t be afraid to get serious. You don’t have to play it safe by talking TV and movies. Talk to him about your family. Share your history. Opening up about the things that make you, you, and really being vulnerable is what shows someone how you handle life. [Read: 20 deep questions to ask a guy and turn anyone into an open book]

#22 Laugh. Don’t forget to laugh. Make jokes, laugh at his *if they’re funny*. You can be serious but you don’t have to take yourself so seriously.

#23 Let him be. Give him space. You may hope he’ll be your boyfriend but he isn’t right now and that is okay. Don’t constantly text him or talk to him. Live your life. Let him come to you once in a while. If you are constantly available, it will seem like you have no other priorities or interests. [Read: How to give space and other moves to get a guy to commit without asking him for it]

#24 Be honest. Tell him the truth. Tell him you don’t like this or that. Tell him you’re recently out of a relationship or that your dream is to be a mother or to travel. Be honest about stuff that seems like too much, because if it’s not, it is what will make him like you.

#25 Tell him you like him. If you aren’t getting anywhere, he could be a slow starter but if not, tell him you’re interested. That could be the push he needed to make a move. [Read: How to let a guy know you’re interested without appearing overeager]

#26 Be open to options. Don’t let yourself get used to the idea that he will like you. Remain open to other options. You don’t have dibs on him nor he, you. Realize there are other guys out there and getting him to like you isn’t the only option.

[Read: How to date multiple guys without being shady or called a cheater]

Learning how to get a guy to like you is not hard, but it does take patience. If you’re willing to wait a while this could be your method, but don’t wait too long. You may end up overlooking another guy that’s even better!

The post How to Get a Guy to Like You: 26 Super Moves that Drive Men Crazy is the original content of LovePanky - Your Guide to Better Love and Relationships.

How to Know if You’re in Love: 15 Signs It’s Not Just Butterflies

They’re all you think about and you’ve totally forgotten about the ex who broke your heart. Learn how to know if you’re in love in surprising ways!

The thing is, when you move through the early stages of dating and into serious territory, how can you really tell when you cross the line from just being together to being smitten with your new beau? How to know if you’re in love can be deduced in 15 pretty easy, yet sometimes surprising, ways.

There is a huge difference between being in love and being in lust. And there’s a massive difference between being in love and being infatuated.

When you’re in love, everything feels calm and easy. Gone are the panic-stricken moments when they don’t reply immediately to a text, or you’re always trying to make yourself look your best because you’re worried they won’t like you with morning hair and breath.

[Read: 22 signs of love that signal it is the real deal]

How to know if you’re in love: 15 surprising ways to reveal the truth

Yes, being in love is a calmer, less worried, and more chilled out type of deal. Here’s how to tell if it’s love or just a passing thing.

#1 The antics of your ex don’t bother you anymore. It’s normal to feel upset or angry when you look back on past relationships and the things your ex might have done to hurt you.

But when you’re in love, those things don’t bother you as much. Sure, you might still get the odd moment of anger, but the hurt will have healed because they don’t matter to you anymore. [Read: The 9 stages of love all couples have to go through]

#2 Sex is great, but you love the cuddles more. At the beginning, it’s all about ripping each other’s clothes off and loving every second you spend between the sheets. However, how to know if you’re in love can be figured out by how you feel about the cuddles versus the sex.

It’s normal for the passion to fade a little but when you’re in love you don’t mind so much because the cuddles are just as good, if not better. [Read: How to cuddle with all the best cuddle positions you should know]

#3 When something happens, you want to tell them first. How to know if you’re in love? When something happens to you, good or bad, they’re the first person you want to tell about it. You want to share your experiences with them and hear their opinion on it, because it genuinely matters to you.

#4 They’re the ones who just make you feel better. Moving on from the last point, if something happens to you, they’re the ones who make you feel better, faster. A cuddle from your beau eases your upset and makes you feel calmer. They have a habit of just knowing what to say to you to ease your worries or concerns, and it feels like home.

#5 The worry stage has eased. While it’s normal to have the odd moment of ‘what must they think of me’, the initial panic stages of what to wear and why they’ve not texted you back immediately have eased. You feel assured by the fact that if they’ve not texted you straight back, it’s fine, and they will when they have a moment. It’s simply calmer and far less worrisome.

#6 You want to make them feel better. If your partner is having a bad day, feeling under the weather, or just not on top of their game, you want to make them feel better.

This is probably one of the biggest signs on how to know if you’re in love, because their emotions and their pain matters more to you in that moment. That’s love. [Read: 8 little habits that bring couples closer together]

#7 Making them smile becomes your hobby of choice. Making them smile makes you smile and makes you feel good to know that you did that for them. You don’t mind acting silly or telling jokes to make them grin.

#8 You’re not always second guessing them when they tell you where they’ve been. If you’re in love, you trust your partner. It’s not possible to have a healthy relationship without trust. So, assuming your relationship is healthy, when they tell you where they’ve been, you believe them and you don’t question it. It’s a wonderful feeling.

#9 You have conversations about what to do in the future. When you start talking about the future, it’s a big nod towards the big L. You’re planning weekends away, what you might do a few years down the line, and perhaps even making big decisions that will affect the rest of your lives. That’s how to know if you’re in love, indeed! [Read: The sure signs of falling in love everyone should know]

#10 You don’t mind compromising or sacrificing things for them. While you shouldn’t go around making sacrifices just for the sake of it, especially if you’re always putting yourself second, you know you’re in love if you don’t mind doing so, at the right time. Relationships are about compromise and sacrifice. When you’re fine with it, you’ve fallen hard.

#11 Arguments don’t make you automatically worry that it’s over. When you’re in the early stages of dating and you have an argument, it’s normal to worry that everything is over. When you fall in love, you know that you’re going to have arguments occasionally. You also know that it’s not the end of the line. You talk things through and overcome the issue together. [Read: 14 steps that’ll lead you to better love and better communication]

#12 You have a general feeling of contentment. Being in love feels calm and safe. How to know if you’re in love? You feel like everything has fallen into place. Sure, it won’t always be perfect, because nothing is, but you don’t feel always on edge or worried. Rather, you’re just content with where you are. You’re happy and that’s what love is about.

#13 You see things they would like and want to treat them. When you’re in love, you want to see your partner smile, but it’s not always about telling jokes and doing silly things, it’s about buying small yet meaningful gifts whenever you can. If you’re out and about and you see something you know they’d love, you’ll probably want to surprise them with it, and you’ll feel excited to do so.

#14 Being yourself is easy. There’s no need to force anything, and you don’t feel the need to try and be someone you’re not. You feel accepted for who you are, and you accept your partner for who they are too. It’s a happy and comfortable feeling that allows you to grow within the relationship.

#15 Their sadness becomes your sadness. If they’re feeling down about something, their sadness becomes yours and you really feel their hurt. That means you’ll want to help them as much as you can and support them. Your world doesn’t feel right until they’re smiling once more. [Read: All the many reasons why empathy is so important in a relationship]

The subtle shift into love

How many of these how to know if you’re in love signs can you nod along to? Sometimes it’s hard to know when you’ve passed the line between serious and in love.

It’s a subtle shift, and you might not even realize until you look back on it. Maybe you can pinpoint the exact moment you realized you were in love. But it’s more likely that it just crept up on you and you had no idea.

[Read: How to read the signs you’re definitely falling in love and feel all the feels]

Learning how to know if you’re in love means thinking about how you feel and whether or not you’ve passed from butterflies and stress to calmness and serenity. If so, the chance of love being in the air are pretty high!

The post How to Know if You’re in Love: 15 Signs It’s Not Just Butterflies is the original content of LovePanky - Your Guide to Better Love and Relationships.

How to Propose to Your Girlfriend In a Way She’ll Always Remember

You’re ready to put a ring on it and you want the moment to be special. Learn how to propose to your girlfriend and await a big, fat ‘yes’! 

The time is right, you’re sure of it. You want to ask the big question and you’re ready to plan a proposal to end all proposals. The problem? You have no idea how to propose to your girlfriend in a way that’s both special and memorable for the right reasons. 

Friends ask me for advice on this very subject and I tell them all the same thing – every girl is different! One girl might not want a huge fuss made at all. Another might want doves and huge romantic gestures. You’re no doubt confused and want to get it right.

The bottom line—just say what’s in your heart and ask the question. The rest doesn’t really matter, does it?

20 unconventional date ideas to take her on before proposing]

How to know when to propose

Of course, you might also be wondering how to know when to propose to your girlfriend. Firstly, when you’re ready. Secondly, if you’re wondering in terms of the actual time of day, again, whenever feels right! I don’t think you should plan it. Wait for a moment that feels right to you. However, that’s my opinion only, maybe your girlfriend would prefer a romantic setting she can keep in her mind forever. You know your girlfriend better than me!

[Read: 12 key questions to ask before marriage to know if they’re the one]

However, I can give you some general tips on how to propose to your girlfriend in a way she’ll love and cherish, so you can use that advice and the knowledge of your girlfriend’s preferences, to create the ideal proposal. 

What makes a proposal special?

When first learning how to propose to your girlfriend, you should know what actually makes a proposal special in the first place. How to pop the question isn’t just about the actual words, it’s about the meaning behind them. Don’t just come straight out with “will you marry me.” Instead build up to the moment and say something heartfelt. That’s what makes the moment special. 

It’s a declaration of your love. It’s a reason why you felt the need to ask this question. You tell her this to show her that you’re not only serious, but that you’re also extremely sure about it all. There’s nothing more romantic than that. [Read: How to say or write something beautiful like a true romantic]

Do you have to go down on a knee?

Not necessarily. Maybe you’ve got dodgy knees, in which case I don’t recommend it! However, if you want to be traditional and you know your girlfriend would appreciate that, then go for it.

If you want to stick to traditions even more, make sure you go down on your left knee and you hold the ring box in your left hand. But does it really matter? I don’t think your girlfriend is really going to notice the specifics of which knee hit the ground!

Choosing the right words to propose

What makes a proposal special is the words and the meaning behind them. The setting can help, but it’s not 100% necessary if you don’t have the means to head out somewhere stunningly beautiful and expensive. It can be just as special in your living room as on the top of a mountain!

[Read: Leave your lover speechless with these unique proposal ideas]

Do you need a ring at the time of proposing?

It’s nice if you do. Maybe you know that your girlfriend would prefer to pick her own or for you both to choose it together. Buying the ring yourself does show that you planned things, thought it through, and went to the trouble of choosing a ring for her.

This is a personal choice. Go with what you know your girlfriend would prefer. If you have no idea, you could always enlist the help of one of her close friends, as long as you know they’re not going to blab your intentions ahead of time! [Confession: My boyfriend popped the question a horrendous ring!]

How to propose to your girlfriend 

While there’s no numbered process you should go through to propose to your one and only, there is a general guideline that you might like to know about. That way, you’ll have more chance of an emphatic ‘yes’ and a very memorable proposal!

#1 Choose a time that makes you feel comfortable. While it’s fine to be spontaneous, and totally encouraged, you shouldn’t pop the question when you’re just not comfortable. She will instantly be able to tell. You want her to remember this moment for all the right reasons.

#2 Think about what you’re going to say. I’m not one for totally prepared speeches, but you should have an idea of what you want to say. Remember, the words you say tell her how you feel and why you want to marry her, so come up with something that is from the heart and not from a book! [Read: How to say “You are the love of my life” without freaking out]

#3 Make sure the timing and setting is right for her. It’s going to be a surprise, but you know her better than anyone. You should understand whether or not she would be comfortable with the timing and setting you’ve chosen. 

#4 Buy a ring. It’s not a rule to buy a ring beforehand, but if you’re going to do so, this is obviously a step you should complete before you ask the question. You’re going to face two problems here – sizing and the actual ring itself. Again, you know her, and you’ll know what she likes. If you’re not sure, ask a friend to help you.

As for sizing, can you quickly “borrow” one of her other rings from her drawer and put it back once you’ve been to the jeweler’s? Or somehow weave the subject of ring sizing subtly into the conversation? It’s a difficult one, but other than that, your jeweler should be able to help you out. Most rings can be re-sized if there is a problem afterwards. 

#5 Give yourself a moment. Before you actually go for it, take a breath, steady yourself. Remember what you want to say. Taking a moment will calm your nerves.

#6 Go for it! Just ask. Seriously, just ask. If you love her and she loves you, she’s quite likely to say ‘yes’. You have nothing to worry about. This is a beautiful moment in a relationship and the only hurdle you have to get over is your own nerves. Rip off the BandAid and go for it! [Read: 15 romantic ideas to make the proposal a day she’ll never ever forget]

How not to propose to your girlfriend

Learning how to propose to your girlfriend is also about knowing what not to do. I was recently asked how expensive should a proposal be? What a ridiculous question. It can cost absolutely nothing and still be the most special moment ever. Money doesn’t make a proposal special and memorable, the meaning and the sincerity does. 

My friend’s fiancé got down on one knee while she was cooking dinner. She was so surprised she dropped the pasta all over the floor and they ended up calling for takeout. She still tells the story like it’s the most romantic thing ever.

You see, it was the element of surprise, the fact that such an ordinary, everyday moment was hijacked by something so special. She still can’t cook pasta without a smile on her face even now!

[Read: The 10 most romantic proposal ideas if you’re on a budget]

I also have a friend who was proposed to by her partner and although she said ‘yes’, because she loved him and wanted to marry him, she still laments the fact that he did it in front of her entire family and group of friends at her sister’s birthday party. Firstly, he took the shine away from her sister’s day, which is something her sister has never let her forget. Secondly, my friend is not someone who loves the limelight. If her partner had thought about it properly and tailored the proposal to her likes, they would never done it in public. 

Be empathetic and think from your partner’s perspective

Just think about your partner and what they would like, not what you would like. Also, don’t make it over the top and showy. Don’t do it in front of lots of other people if you know your girlfriend would prefer a more intimate moment, and don’t use a pre-planned speech which just doesn’t come from the heart.

You don’t have to rehearse it, just say what you feel. Your girlfriend is going to see through your efforts if you quote song lyrics or use a speech you’ve found online! Just say what you feel about her, and the moment will be ultra-special. [Read: 25 clear signs she’s wifey material and way more than just dating material]

A word about proposing and social media

Ah, social media. I have such a love-hate relationship with online platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. On the one hand, I love them. I connect with those around me and those far away, but these platforms can also be used for total over-sharing and making other people feel bad. 

Once you’ve figured out how to propose to your girlfriend, don’t go plastering it all over your social media platforms in a totally over the top way. It’s just cringy and makes everyone else roll their eyes. 

[Read: Social media and your relationship – the good, the bad, and the ugly]

Sure, share it, change your relationship status and even exclaim how happy you are, but avoid huge photo collages and long paragraphs declaring your love. It’s just not necessary. Less is more and the best proposal ideas don’t need to be splashed far and wide for the sake of likes and retweets.

Maybe you disagree with me on that one, but isn’t it more important to think about what to say when you propose, rather than how you’re going to show the world the ring? I have no problem reading about my friend getting engaged, and I’ll like it and give them a ‘congratulations’ really sharing in their joy.

Do I want all the finer details along with a showreel of photographs that have been filtered to within an inch of their life? Not so much. Please spare your friends all of this and keep it for yourselves! 

[Read: 20 ideas to pull off the most romantic proposal ever]

Learning how to propose to your girlfriend is less about the fancy stuff and more about the words. You can plan it down to the finest detail if you choose, but the only thing you’ll want to remember is the look on her face.

The post How to Propose to Your Girlfriend In a Way She’ll Always Remember is the original content of LovePanky - Your Guide to Better Love and Relationships.

How to Stop Nagging Your Partner & Let Go of the Partner Pestering

No one wants to constantly pester their partner to do something. Luckily, you can learn how to stop nagging and start letting go for a happier union.

You’re in a relationship and find yourself asking your partner to do something repeatedly. You ask them, they forget to do it. Then, you ask them again, and it’s the same hamster wheel again and again. And before you know it, your calm requests take on the subtle overtones of a nagging confrontation! Here’s how to stop nagging for a happier relationship.

What is nagging?

Nagging is a repetitive behavior of persistently annoying someone to do something or to put them down. It sounds awful but is rarely meant with malice. Nagging isn’t usually about the person being nagged but the person doing the nagging, i.e. you.

[Read: Relationship facts – the real facts of love no one talks about]

Sure, you may nag your partner to pick up their dirty clothes and put them in the hamper, but the reason it bothers you so much is usually deeper. And the fact that the behavior you’re nagging about isn’t changing proves that the nagging doesn’t work. 

Why we nag in the first place

You came looking for this article for a reason. Either you’ve picked up on your habit of nagging on your own, or, more likely, it is driving your partner crazy and you want to do better. First off, good for you.

It is hard to admit that you are nagging. Most of us who nag make excuses for the behavior like, “I wouldn’t have to nag if you would just do it the first time I asked.”

[Read: Why you keep having the same fight and how to break an unhealthy cycle]

This is a behavior we learned from experiencing it ourselves. Maybe it was your mom on your dad to fix the sink or your parents nagging you about homework or chores. We are exposed to constant pestering from a young age. And I’m not blaming your parents. Their parents did it too. 

We all hate it being done to us but yet the day comes where we pick up on this annoying habit. And it comes on slowly so we don’t always realize it. 

Nagging in a relationship

It starts with something small. We tell ourselves we are just reminding our partner to do something so they don’t forget. Then we tell ourselves we are just worried about them so we bring it up, and then bring it up again.

Those reminders and worries then turn into suggestions and complaints. And that nagging does not help a relationship. 

[Read: How to love someone: The easy guide to grow closer and love deeper]

But, why does this happen? Well, both men and women nag, but about different things. Stereotypically, a man may nag his wife to bring her car for an oil change and a woman might nag her husband to unclog the toilet. 

This is because traditionally women take on the responsibility of the home and men the yard or cars. This isn’t to say this is normal or common, but an archaic example. 

When you are nagging, it is because you feel responsible for the action that isn’t being done when really you have no control over it. You may feel you must keep a clean house, but when it comes to your partner’s items, it is up to them what to do with it. 

[Read: The biggest and most obvious signs of a controlling person]

Why nagging someone doesn’t really work

You may think, how hard is it to put dirty clothes in the hamper? But because it isn’t a priority to them, they don’t do it. And the more it bothers you, the more you nag, and the less likely they are to do it. 

You end up have the same argument over and over which only adds to the negative effects of nagging.

And this goes deeper than household chores. When you nag, not only do you feel in control, but you are seen as the one who is right. Clearly, your intent is for the good of the home while your partner is simply ignoring you. You see them following your requests as a favor for you. And when they don’t follow through, it is an issue for them, not for you. 

This leads to you continuing to nag as it is something they need to do, not something you need to stop doing. And this continues until the action is changed, that is, until the next thing. 

Why you should stop nagging

The reasoning behind nagging goes very deep. This is why according to therapists, nagging is the leading cause of divorce. 

Someone who is prone to nagging won’t stop when things change. Even if your partner follows through on what you’re nagging about, you’ll find a new focus. 

This is why so many relationships don’t come back from incessant nagging. The occasional nag is not something to worry too much about, but if it is a major issue in your relationship, it can be hard to overcome. 

[Read: The critical signs of an unhealthy relationship]

Nagging is essentially a learned behavior that you are now addicted to in a sense. It is your baseline. Nagging comes from wanting more done. It is a way to look for a problem, and there are a ton of psychological issues behind that, which can be brought on by your childhood. 

Next to therapy to help train you out of this habit, there are some ways you can practice breaking your nagging habit before it destroys your relationship.

How to stop nagging and learn to communicate well instead

Appreciation and gratitude can help you fight your urge to nag. Cheesy, yes, but stick with me. Focus on what they do for you instead of what they aren’t doing or the behavior you’d like them to stop. 

Maybe they can’t get their dirty socks in the laundry, but they do scrub the toilet once a week. Maybe you feel they play video games too much, but they sit down and eat a meal with you every night. 

I am not saying you should forget about things your partner does or doesn’t do. But appreciating the good things can lessen the effects of what you’re nagging about. Changing your thinking will do a lot more good for you than them changing their behavior anyway.

[Read: How to show your appreciation to those you love and express gratitude]

Every time you feel on the verge of nagging your partner about something, repeat to yourself, “I am grateful for *something your partner does*.” The mindset can help you see your partner in a more positive light, so your go-to reaction isn’t to nag.

This is similar to picking your battles. Is nagging about this worth a fight? Is nagging about this worth your relationship? Taking time to think about why you nag can help you retrain your brain to respond in a different way. 

When your partner does something that annoys you, forgive them. If they leave beard trimming in the sink, instead of losing your cool, forgive them. Remember, forgiveness isn’t about them, but about you. 

Do you want to feel stressed, high-strung, and annoyed? Do you want to carry all the responsibility for the things you’re nagging about? No. 

Forgiving your partner for these things will not only ease their burden but yours too. [Read: How to forgive someone and learn to unburden your own mind]

The psychological effects of nagging someone

You expect your partner to love and cherish you through your nagging, but you can’t forgive them for leaving the toilet seat up? How is that an equal relationship that is based on respect? 

[Read: How to manage your expectations in a relationship]

Relationships cannot be everything for you. You cannot expect your partner to please you in every way just as you can’t please them in every way. That is an expectation so many people have of relationships that is unhealthy and unrealistic. 

A relationship will not fill every void. And for many women, nagging puts pressure on a partner to be better or do more. In reality, men recede from nagging. They turn into themselves which doesn’t help you or the situation. Again, proving nagging doesn’t produce results, or at least not positive ones.

If you expect your partner to change their behavior because they love you, can they not expect that same thing of you? If you love them, why would you not change your behavior? Because loving someone isn’t about changing for them or them changing for you, but about loving each other with these annoyances and still making it work. 

[Read: Insecurity in a relationship: How to be more secure and love better]

Learning how to stop nagging isn’t about changing your behavior, but it’s time to adjust your behavior. Start small, and with some time and effort, you can get rid of the addictive habit of nagging.

The post How to Stop Nagging Your Partner & Let Go of the Partner Pestering is the original content of LovePanky - Your Guide to Better Love and Relationships.

Heartwarming Nice Guy Friend Zone Success Stories

Guys share their stories of getting together with their friend zone friends after 10 or more years. You’ll be misty-eyed and your heart will be warmed.

There's a heartwarming thread on Reddit where a bunch of nice guys share their friend zone success stories.

"I finally married the girl I've been friends with for over 10 years!" the lead post exclaims.

The lucky bridegroom shared a photograph of himself and the girl he finally netted after 10 long years (image to the right).

She embraces him in that manly way, cupping his breasts with her hands, as he stands butt-to-crotch with his back arched and his head cast back, gazing at her over his shoulder in a high effort "I'm doing more work to look at you than you are at me" sort of fashion.

Cheered on by this gleeful friend-getter's example, other men swiftly piled in to share their own good fortunes:

It is 100% possible to escape the friendzone.

I am currently in a relationship like that. Years and years invested into our friendship. And things finally worked out. And now we're planning our wedding.

You are a fucking rockstar OP. Absolute legend.

There's nothing quite so legendary as toughing it out in the friend zone for a decade before you finally get some. This is the stuff heroes are forged from.

Another commentator remarks with helpful advice to the previous one, saying:

This simply means you only thought you were in the friend zone. You can tell that you weren't because you aren't.

Wise words, /u/Aspect-of-Death.

When you think you're in the friend zone, then after years you start dating her, it means you were never in the friend zone all along.

So how does one know if one's truly in the friend zone or not?

Only years or decades of patience can tell you for sure.

Here's another Redditor sharing his happy outcome:

Congrats guys! I married an amazing woman that I had known and been friends with for 16 years. One day something just clicked and we couldn't be more in love.

All it took was 16 years and one day something clicked and she realized she wanted him too.

I wonder what clicked?