Relationships aren’t always plain sailing and they can best be described as a journey, an adventure filled with highs and lows, joys and challenges. Relationships evolve, change, and mature as time goes by, but this evolution is not only normal, it’s necessary for the growth and longevity of a romantic partnership.
Relationship experts used to believe that there were four stages in relationships, however, psychologists have discovered that there are actually five stages that couples go through if they are to solidify their union.
Let’s take a closer look at the five stages of a relationship, what they mean, and why romantic love is always evolving.
Note: Some of the
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Stage 1: The Honeymoon Stage (0 to 1 year)
The honeymoon stage, also known as the infatuation stage, is the first stage of a relationship, and it’s characterized by intense emotions, strong attraction, and a sense of “love at first sight.” This is the romance stage when everything about your partner seems perfect, they feel like your soulmate, and you can’t seem to get enough of each other.
This stage is filled with lots of dates, constant texting, calls, and messages, and there is typically a lot of physical attraction. Some people describe this phase as “The moon landing stage” as it can almost feel like you and your partner are floating in a love bubble together, and it seems like it will last forever.
Science tells us that this is a time when our brains are being flooded with feel-good chemicals such as dopamine, and oxytocin.
However, sadly, the honeymoon stage doesn’t last forever, and experts suggest that this stage can last anywhere from a few months to a year or two, depending on the couple. It’s a time of idealization, where partners often ignore red flags and are blind to each other’s flaws – so it’s not all sunshine and rainbows!
But while it’s important to enjoy this stage, it’s equally important to try and stay grounded in reality (at least a little bit).
You’ll know you’re in the Honeymoon Stage when…
- You feel a strong attraction and intense emotions towards your partner.
- You idealize your partner and see them as perfect.
- You spend a lot of time together, often going on dates and communicating frequently.
- You may ignore or be oblivious to your partner’s flaws.
- There’s a sense of euphoria and excitement in the relationship
Stage 2: The Reality-Check Stage (1 to 2 years)
After the honeymoon phase comes the reality-check stage. This is when the rose-colored glasses come off, and you start seeing your partner for who they are – both the good, the bad, and everything in between. This stage is often a make-or-break phase in a relationship. It’s when you start noticing your partner’s flaws and quirks that you might have been previously oblivious to.
This stage can be challenging, as it often involves conflict and disagreements and it’s regularly referred to as “the power struggle stage”. Couples can sometimes feel like they are fighting to save the relationship in this phase.
However, it’s also an opportunity for growth, and it’s a good time to practice communication skills, assert your needs, and work through issues together.
This stage can strengthen your bond as you navigate challenges and learn to appreciate each other’s individuality.
You’ll know you’re in the Reality-Check Stage when…
- You start noticing your partner’s flaws and quirks more.
- The initial euphoria starts to fade, and you begin to see your partner more realistically.
- There may be conflicts and disagreements as you start to address issues in the relationship.
- You may start questioning the relationship and whether your partner is the right one for you
Stage 3: The Work Stage (2 to 5 years)
The work stage is where you start building a solid foundation for your relationship, and this phase is about learning how to compromise, resolve conflicts, and work together as a team.
If we’re being honest, this stage can be tough, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. The work stage of the relationship is a time of growth, where you learn to navigate challenges together and find solutions that work for both of you.
This is when you are both learning how to “fight to win together” – not against each other.
It’s about finding balance and learning how to meet each other’s needs. This stage can strengthen your relationship and set you up for long-term success.
During the work stage, you’ll likely encounter challenges and disagreements – living together is a common step at this stage so there’ll be lots of getting used to one another in a new context. You’ll be learning about your partner’s habits, and routines, and you might even spend the holidays together for the first time.
However, it’s important to remember that it’s how you handle these challenges that will determine the success of your relationship.
If you both prioritize finding balance and learning how to meet each other’s needs, then you will dramatically increase your chances of maintaining a healthy relationship.
You’ll know you’re in the Work Stage when…
- You’re actively working on building a solid foundation for your relationship.
- There’s a focus on learning how to compromise and resolve conflicts.
- You may encounter challenges and disagreements that require teamwork to overcome.
- You and your partner are focusing on mutual communication and meeting goals together.
Stage 4: The Commitment Stage of a Relationship (2+ years & beyond)
The commitment phase kicks in around two years and often coincides with other stages like “the work stage,” “the acceptance stage,” and indeed beyond – usually lasting for the entire duration of the relationship.
The two-year stage in a relationship marks a significant turning point for couples. This is when the rose-tinted glasses of the honeymoon phase have been replaced with a clearer view of things, and couples usually begin facing conflict around this time.
That’s why the commitment stage is also referred to as “the decision stage” by some experts because this is when couples must decide whether they are going to fully commit to each other and to “doing the work” to maintain a long-term partnership or part ways.
During this time, a deeper bond is formed, with both partners actively choosing to invest in the relationship, accept each other’s flaws – and make a conscious decision to commit to loving each other despite their differences.
You’ll know you’re in the Commitment Phase when…
- You start to feel like your partner is committed to working through things with you – not against you.
- You can both see a future together and start making plans because you are both ready to invest in a long-term partnership.
- Feelings of safety, trust, and security replace feelings of intense excitement.
- You start to feel comfortable with all aspects of who you are around your partner.
- The frequency of sexual intimacy might decrease, but this is perfectly normal as the connection develops beyond physical attraction and your emotional bond increases.
Stage 5: The Acceptance Stage of a Relationship (5 or more years)
The final stage of a relationship is the acceptance stage. This is when you’ve worked through your issues, have made a commitment to each other, and have come to accept one another for who you are.
It’s a stage of mutual understanding, deep connection, and respect. You’ve built a strong foundation, and now you’re enjoying the fruits of your labor.
The acceptance stage is a beautiful place to be. It’s a stage of comfort, security, and deep love, and It’s when you know that you can weather any storm together and that you’re in it for the long haul.
You’ll know you’re in the Acceptance Relationship Stage when…
- You’ve come to accept each other for who you are, flaws and all.
- There’s a deep connection and understanding between you and your partner.
- You feel a sense of comfort, security, and deep love in the relationship.
- There’s a sense of mutual respect and appreciation for each other
How to Master Every Stage of Your Relationship
Relationships aren’t one-dimensional, they are a journey through different stages, each with its unique challenges and rewards. Understanding these stages can help you navigate your relationship more effectively.
Remember, every relationship is unique, and these five stages aren’t set in stone, they are merely a guide to help you understand the natural progression that most romantic relationships go through.
No matter what stage of your relationship you’re in, one thing remains constant: the importance of making time for one another.
Life can get busy, and it’s easy to let the hustle and bustle of things take precedence over quality time with your partner. But it’s quality time that helps to strengthen your bond, deepen your connection, and keep the spark of love alive.
This is where Cupla can help. Cupla is a shared calendar app designed exclusively for couples, that allows partners to view each other’s schedules, making it easier than ever to carve out that all-important quality time.
With Cupla, you can easily coordinate activities, plan date nights, and ensure that no matter how busy life gets, you always have time set aside for each other.
But don’t take our word for it, check out some Reviews From Our Happy Couples.
- 70% of Cupla users say the app reduces stress and tension in their relationships.
- Cupla can help you both achieve clarity in your schedules, leading to greater alignment, and more time together.
- Cupla makes it easier to plan dates, meet up after work, or make travel plans with your partner, ultimately resulting in a happier, healthier relationship.
- That’s why 100,000+ couples are using Cupla in 2025 to stay connected to their partner, and why you should too.
Positive in any stage
Whether you’re in the honeymoon stage, the reality-check stage, the work stage, the commitment stage, or the acceptance stage, remember that each stage is part of the whole relationship journey.
Embrace each stage, learn from it, and keep moving forward. After all, love is an adventure, and like all adventures, it’s filled with twists and turns.
But with patience, and understanding you can both learn to navigate each stage and build a loving romantic relationship that’s strong enough to last a lifetime.
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