Many people remain in a relationship not because they still feel strong affection, but because they are afraid of change. The famous seems safe. Even if the pair is no longer the same proximity, the gap can be perceived as something dangerous, frightening. Fear of staying alone, start all over again, to face the unknown - all this can make you cling to relationships that no longer bring joy.

But the habit is not always bad. If relations are based on respect, warmth and trust, then over time, stability naturally appears. There is nothing anxious in this. It can be a mature form of love, in which there is less passion, but more depth.

The problem arises when a person remains in a relationship not of his own free will, but because of fear. Because of the desire to avoid loneliness or social condemnations. In such cases, love turns into an automatic repetition of gestures, words and rituals, devoid of real feeling.

Real attachment differs in that it is based on a choice. Not fear, not convenience, not pressure, but a conscious decision to be with this person. Every day. Even when there are no fireworks. Even when everything became familiar.

It is important to distinguish between two states: “I feel good with this person” and “I am familiar with this person.” These sensations are similar, but have different nature. The first is based on emotional connection, the second is on fear of losing a comfort zone.

Love can become familiar - and this is not necessarily bad. But if joy disappears in a relationship, the desire to be near, if it remains only “necessary,” is an occasion to think. Honesty is no less important than honesty with a partner.

Asking yourself is just worth it: do I stay here because I love, or because I'm afraid to leave? The answer to this question often becomes the beginning of these changes. Or - confirmation that there is really the one with whom you want to be.