Are you feeling disconnected in a relationship and wondering if that loving feeling will ever return?

You’re not alone if you find yourself in a place where arguments are frequent, disillusionment creeps in, and doubts about your partner’s compatibility arise. Feeling disconnected in a relationship is a common experience, and it’s crucial to understand that relationships naturally go through various stages of development.

According to Linda Carroll, one of my favorite authors, every relationship typically undergoes five distinct stages:

Stage 1: The Merge

In this stage, you’re captivated by the newness of your relationship. Everything seems ideal, but this phase of idealization eventually faces the reality of life. Feeling disconnected in a relationship can start here as the initial euphoria fades.

Stage 2: Doubt and Denial

The traits you once adored might start to irk you. Intimacy might decline, and doubts may surface, leading to a sense of disconnection.

Stage 3: Disillusionment

Here, repetitive arguments and differences in your relationship become more evident. This stage is often where feeling disconnected in a relationship becomes most pronounced.

Stage 4: Decision

You may question your initial feelings of love and contemplate leaving, feeling disconnected and unsure.

Stage 5: Wholehearted Love

After growth and evolution, a deeper, more mature love emerges. This stage transcends the earlier feelings of disconnection, bringing calm joy and a warm, affectionate bond.

Experiencing these stages is a part of rekindling love. Each couple’s journey through these phases is unique, and not all relationships will survive them. This is where relationship coaching can be invaluable in navigating these challenges and mitigating feelings of disconnection in a relationship.

For a deeper understanding, I recommend Linda Carroll’s “Love Cycles.” If you’re looking to bridge the gap of feeling disconnected in your relationship, consider scheduling a free call with Brigitte for personalized coaching guidance.