Why 65% of Relationships Get Stuck

Most people think of relationships in binary terms: 

“I’m in one or not.”

“It’s good or bad.”

But relationships are more complex than that.

And without a clear map of the different stages, it’s easy to feel lost, overwhelmed, or stuck.

A framework that changed how I understand relationships, and help others navigate them is:

The 5 Stages of a Relationship. 

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Stage 1: Romance Stage 

We’ve all been there. The spark, thrill, and butterflies.

Hormones are high. Everything feels easy and exciting.

You feel so connected. You idealize the other.

You show your best self, and overlook their flaws.

But here’s the shadow side:

Tough conversations are avoided. Red flags ignored.

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Stage 2: Power Struggle Stage 

The spark starts to fade. Real differences begin to surface.

And suddenly, you find yourself wondering:

“Who is this person?”

Triggers arise.

Arguments escalate.

Communication breaks down.

You question compatibility.

You feel disconnected.

And this is where 65% of relationships end, or get stuck.

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So what’s really happening? 

Stage 2 is marked by power struggles around:

• Intimacy – mismatched desires, unfulfilled expectations, differing values.
• Money – who earns, who spends, who decides.
• Decisions – who has the final say and how it’s made.
• Control – trying to change the other to match our worldview.
• Unmet Needs – not knowing what we really need or how to ask for it.

These struggles create tension, resentment, and distance.

You start fighting not to understand, but to be right.

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So what can we do instead? 

The good news is:

You’re not doomed to a lifetime of conflict.

With the right skills, this stage can become a gateway to true intimacy.

I call this process Courageous Conversations:

A simple 3-step approach I teach to help turn conflict into connection:

1. Uncover your patterns – Understand your triggers and emotional responses.
2. Express with clarity – Share your truth without blame or defensiveness.
3. Hold space for connection – Learn to listen in a way that builds trust and repair.

If this resonated, or you think someone else could benefit, please consider giving it a like to help spread the message.

Stay Courageous

Dean Arcan