6 Surprising Predictors of Divorce You Probably Overlooked

Not all troubled marriages begin with explosive fights or betrayals. Sometimes, the warning signs are far more subtle—hidden in everyday interactions, small habits, or even the things left unsaid. While most people focus on the obvious red flags, experts have uncovered lesser-known indicators that could predict a marriage’s decline long before it reaches a breaking point.

You didn’t discuss your family plans in advance

Not everyone who wants to get married wants to have kids. And even if both spouses want children, there are other things to discuss, such as parenting styles, what you’d do if the kids have disabilities, or how you’d react if they grew up to be different than what you expected.

“Hollywood romance” at the beginning of the relationship

A whirlwind romance may seem like the perfect start to a lasting marriage, but research suggests otherwise. Couples who begin their relationships with over-the-top passion and fairytale-like intensity often struggle to maintain that level of excitement over time.

When the honeymoon phase inevitably fades, these pairs may feel disillusioned, mistaking natural relationship evolution for a loss of love. Ironically, marriages that start at a slower, steadier pace—without the cinematic drama—tend to have stronger foundations and a better chance at longevity.

Avoiding conflict

It might seem like avoiding arguments is a sign of a healthy relationship, but in reality, it can be a silent marriage killer. Sweeping problems under the rug doesn’t make them disappear—it allows resentment to build over time.

If you’re constantly swallowing your feelings to keep the peace, you might be sacrificing your own needs and emotional well-being, which can ultimately erode the foundation of your marriage.

Not implementing “sleep divorce.”

Sharing a bed may seem like a non-negotiable part of marriage, but for some couples, it can actually be a source of tension. Differences in sleep schedules, snoring, or restlessness can lead to poor sleep, which in turn fosters resentment and irritability.

Many experts recommend “sleep divorce,” or sleeping separately, as a practical and healthy solution for couples struggling with nighttime disruptions. Despite its misleading name, this practice isn’t a sign of marital trouble—it’s a way to ensure both partners get the rest they need to function happily together during the day.

You no longer look forward to being together.

Marriage isn’t just about love—it’s about friendship, companionship, and genuinely enjoying each other’s company. While it’s normal for couples to have independent hobbies and alone time, a major red flag is when one or both partners start actively avoiding spending time together.

If you no longer look forward to date nights, conversations, or even casual moments with your spouse, it’s often a sign of emotional disconnect. Without shared interests or a desire to be around each other, the relationship can start to feel more like a burden than a partnership.

You didn’t discuss financial matters.

Like chores, household expenses should be considered shared responsibilities. Couples must discuss how they plan to split the bills, depending on their salaries. Money talk should also include their outstanding debts and financial goals.

Partners must always be honest about money matters to avoid trust issues. The American Psychological Association shares tips on avoiding financial arguments, which include sitting down regularly to review expenses and savings plans.

Take a look at the strongest celebrity marriages that have stood the test of time and continue to inspire fans year after year.