8 Bad habits that end relationships

We know about the squeaky wheel, but complaining loud and long gets you only short-term gains and builds up powerful discontent on your partner's side.

Read more: 5 ways to stop arguing

These tactics belittle the person you promised to love, honour, and cherish; let you play angel to his or her devil, and don’t address the responsibility you both share for your relationship happiness.

These ugly power plays tell your partner that he or she doesn’t count at all in your eyes.

A “whatever you say, Dear” attitude may keep your home quieter but leaves you in the martyr’s role.

You get to be angry, defensive, and a drudge. What fun is that?

 Life isn’t the starship Enterprise; playing the dispassionate Mr. Spock not only cuts you off from your feelings but also subtly tells your partner that his or her feelings don’t count either.

Being hyperactive, fooling around all the time, and refusing to focus—in conversation or in life—is a frustrating attempt to avoid intimacy or difficult issues.

Another stall manoeuvre, stonewalling stops arguments and constructive discussions cold.

Not much can happen when one spouse just won’t talk about it.

Sometimes you have to pick the bathroom paint colour on your own. But if you’re making major decisions about your money, your time, your kids, and your family life, you’re acting without accountability and cutting off the possibility of joint decision-making.

If you find yourself single and looking for a relationship, visit Reader's Digest Dating for an easy-to-use and trustworthy way to fine like-minded people.