
After a full year of dating, you end your relationship with him only to find his official Facebook status showing up with another girl—the same guy who said there were no labels, mind you! So, what’s going on? Well, you might be the fallback in a relationship you thought was completely mutual from the start.
In reality, it was just a benevolent gesture from him, hoping you’d be the one to end it so he’d feel less guilty. That’s what being in a fallback relationship means.
When you’re in a fallback relationship, there’s no way you can see the reality of the situation you’ve put yourself in. So, if reality is what you’re looking for and dreaming of a vague future isn’t enough, here are eight signs you might be in a fallback relationship.
8 Signs You Might Be the Fallback in a Relationship
- He Doesn’t Feel an Emotional Connection with You
One sign of a fallback relationship is that the emotional connection between you and him seems superficial. Conversations often remain superficial, like “How was your day?” or “What did you do?”, and deeper feelings or personal matters don’t naturally surface. There seems to be something missing in this romantic relationship, which should grow over time.
Related : 15 Deceptive Narcissist Hoovering Examples
- He avoids talking about the future
If your partner can’t talk about long-term plans with you, it may be because he doesn’t see you as someone he wants to build a future with, but rather as a substitute friend. He’ll never want to talk about serious relationship matters and will always focus on the present.
- You (always) adjust your schedule to suit…
One sign of a substitute relationship is that you put in an endless effort, while he doesn’t.
If your partner’s schedule always comes first, it means you’re adapting to his life instead of living a single life with him.
A healthy relationship respects each other’s time and commitments. If you feel this way, it means he doesn’t value you or your time!
- His friends act strangely around you
Pay attention to how your partner’s friends act when you’re with them. If they seem uncomfortable and start acting differently, it could mean they know something you don’t. Friends often reflect the sincerity of a relationship, so if they act strangely for no reason, something could be wrong.
- Your relationship hasn’t progressed yet
Relationships naturally evolve over time, and if your relationship seems stuck in one place with no direction, it might be worth talking to him about it.
A fling often means an inability to grow or move forward, as if you’re stuck in a relationship that’s faltering.
- They’re still attached to an ex
One sign of a fling is if your partner constantly talks about or mentions an ex in some way. You could be just a breakup or filling an emotional void with words like “I love you” as bait!
- You’ve never met their family
Meeting each other’s families is an important step in every relationship (at least we think so), and if they don’t bring you home, that’s a big warning sign! You could be just a fling for someone else or something else. You deserve better! And they need to come home!
- You never feel like you’re part of their plans
Everyone deserves to feel loved, important, and included in their partner’s life, even if it’s just for casual activities or events! If you’re constantly neglecting important things, I hate to break it to you, but… you might be in a fling.
Related : 6 Phases Of A Relationship With A Narcissist: The Emotional Rollercoaster
It’s natural to want to play a big role in your partner’s life, and you shouldn’t settle for less. Being a temporary friend means – well, satisfaction. Don’t do that! Remember, communication is essential in any relationship. If you notice these signs of a temporary relationship, talk openly and honestly with your partner about your feelings and concerns.