6 Early Warnings That Your Marriage Is on Shaky Ground

Not all marriages are built to last. While every couple faces challenges, certain warning signs suggest deeper problems that can lead to divorce. If these red flags sound familiar, it may be time to reevaluate your relationship.

1. Your relationship started like a Hollywood romance.

A whirlwind, fairytale-like start might feel magical, but research suggests it’s not always a good sign. Couples who begin with intense passion often struggle to maintain that spark over time. When the initial excitement fades, they may mistake it for falling out of love. Ironically, relationships that start at a steady, more grounded pace tend to have stronger foundations and longer-lasting connections.

2. You avoid conflict at all costs.

Never arguing might seem like a sign of a happy marriage, but it can actually be a silent killer. Avoiding difficult conversations doesn’t make problems disappear—it allows resentment to fester. Constantly suppressing your feelings to keep the peace can lead to emotional exhaustion and a slow breakdown of the relationship.

3. You have completely different financial habits.

Money problems are one of the biggest causes of marital stress. If one partner is a saver and the other is a spender, constant financial tension can arise. When couples don’t openly discuss their financial goals and habits, disagreements over budgeting, debt, or financial priorities can spiral into resentment, leading to a breakdown in trust and stability.

4. You refuse to consider a “sleep divorce”

Sharing a bed might seem essential to a healthy marriage, but for some, it causes more harm than good. Snoring, mismatched sleep schedules, or restlessness can lead to chronic sleep deprivation—fueling irritability and resentment.

Experts suggest that sleeping separately, or a “sleep divorce,” can actually improve relationships by ensuring both partners get quality rest. Despite the name, this practice isn’t about growing apart—it’s about making the marriage work better.

5. Contempt is creeping in.

Few things are as destructive to a marriage as contempt. When one partner treats the other with sarcasm, eye-rolling, or dismissive comments, it erodes mutual respect. Contempt signals deeper resentment and is one of the strongest predictors of divorce, as it poisons communication and makes repairing the relationship incredibly difficult.

6. Your partner doesn’t support your personal growth.

A strong marriage allows both partners to grow as individuals. If your spouse discourages your ambitions, dismisses your passions, or makes you feel guilty for pursuing personal development, it could signal deeper control issues. A relationship that stifles growth can quickly become toxic, making one or both partners feel trapped and unfulfilled.

Spotting these signs early gives you a chance to fix them. A strong marriage requires effort, communication, and growth. The key isn’t just staying together — it’s thriving together and willing to improve your relationships.