I’m going to be honest here — I used to go about relationships completely the wrong way. From my expectations to my jealousy, I thought I was doing the right thing, but over time I learned how toxic some of these habits were.

But here’s the thing – even though I wasn’t intentionally trying to screw things up or hurt my ex-partners, I did.

You may also realize that your behavior is unhealthy and that if you want to create a stable, loving relationship, something needs to change.

Don’t worry — this article won’t shame you for toxic behaviors. Because like me, you probably don’t act this way on purpose.

So instead, see my advice as an opportunity to learn, grow, and do better.

Here are 8 relationship habits you don’t realize are toxic:

1) Always wanting to talk
We all know that communication is the cornerstone of a healthy relationship.

But did you know that there are times when too much communication can be toxic?

Let’s say your partner has just come home from work. They are tired. They need to decompress.

Although you may not mean it, by chasing them to tell you every detail of their day, or to listen to every detail of yours, you may end up putting pressure on them.

In other words, it’s good to remember that everyone needs some breathing space.

Keep communicating, but also be aware of your partner’s mood. If you notice they are stressed or stressed, or even in a rush, find another time to chat.

2) Expect to spend every waking moment together
Another common toxic habit that most people don’t realize they’re doing is expecting to hold onto their partner’s thigh.

Again, I am guilty of this. In the past, I expected my ex to come with me everywhere. If he wasn’t up for it, I’d be upset – he’s my boyfriend, he should be with me, right?

mistake. He enjoyed spending time with me, but didn’t want to come over to see the latest chick flick at the cinema. He didn’t want to attend Taylor Swift’s concert.

Every time he gives in and agrees, I’ll be annoyed because I’ll think, “Why can’t he be a little more excited?”

See how is the no-win situation?

You and your partner are two separate people. Sure, you might have a life together, but that doesn’t mean you have to share the same interests and hobbies!

3) Try to resolve differences immediately
Are you the type who, like me, wants to resolve a battle as quickly as possible?

This is great if your partner feels the same way. But it can cause major problems if they are the type who needs time to cool off before making adjustments.

Even though you’re not intentionally pressuring them, you’re basically not allowing them the time they need to process their feelings.

It’s like saying, “Hey, you’re over the argument now. Let’s make up — even though you’re still angry and haven’t had time to think things through.”

I get it, though, you want to make up and move on as quickly as possible. But maybe your reconciliations will improve if you make up when both of you are ready.

4) Expect your partner to be your “everything”
my partner. soulmate. My best friend. I am confident of myself. My partner in crime.

Oh, the list could go on!

While it’s nice to want your partner to be “everything” because you love them so much, have you ever thought that this could be a huge request?

One they can’t live up to?

The truth is, it is not healthy to expect your partner to take on multiple roles in your life.

They cannot replace your mother. or your best friend. Or the co-worker you enjoy gossiping with.

Their role is simply to be themselves – your partner. Anything else can strain the relationship and make them feel like they need to role play many different people just to keep you happy.

This leads us to the next point:

5) Make your partner your only source of happiness

This is another big misconception that leads people to form toxic habits in relationships: