Honeymoon Phase: What It Is & 53 Signs to Know How Long This Stage Will Last

Most people have experienced the honeymoon stage of a relationship and miss it. But how long does it last and how do you know when it’s over? 

Ahh, those blissful first few months of dating! Isn’t the honeymoon stage the best? You are getting to know one another, you are falling in love, you can’t keep your hands off one another, and every time they call or text you get a huge, giddy smile on your face.

The thing is, when you first start dating someone, you are on your absolute best behavior, and so are they. 

Of course, you can’t help but feel happy and in a good mood about finding a new love, so it probably comes pretty naturally to you to be kind, generous, loving, affectionate, and all the other things that can be so easily lost or taken for granted in a long-term relationship.

When you are in the honeymoon stage, you are probably nicer to your new love than you have been to anyone in your whole life. 

The fact that you are so giddy and sappy means that it is far easier to overlook all those flaws that you only begin to notice after you’ve settled into your new relationship. 

It’s only after some time, when you start to feel more comfortable around each other, that things start to change. [Read: 22 new relationship advice and tips to avoid newbie mistakes many make]

What is the honeymoon phase?

Generally, we fall in love with someone, and sometimes, it’s even love at first sight. So, what happens next?

You put on your best behavior to woo them, you find their jokes extra funny, and you think they’re the most beautiful thing that walked on two legs. You give it your all to impress them, and chances are, they’re doing the same for you as well!

This exact feeling or stage of the relationship is known as the honeymoon phase.

It’s the first phase of any romantic relationship when two people first start falling in love with each other. It’s more of an infatuation that’s based on attraction and lust, rather than love. 

But why is it called the honeymoon phase? Well, that’s because this phase of romance is like the honeymoon *first vacation* of a marriage. 

And this part of falling in love is considered to be the happiest phase of a relationship, where nothing can go wrong, no arguments, and no unhappy moments – everything is just rosy, perfect, and blissful! [Read: The stages of a relationship all couples have to go through in their lifetime]

Why do we even have a honeymoon phase?

Now that we know what this fun phase is, why the hell does it even exist? Sure, we know that we’re always giddy because it’s new and exciting, but that isn’t enough to warrant an entire phase of a relationship, is it? 

The truth is, it has to do with chemicals in your brain and the way you carry yourself.

On one hand, you have all those feel-good hormones rushing through your brain making you happy. But on the other hand, you’re also on your best behavior. You don’t want to risk saying the wrong thing or messing up a relationship before it has even begun.

The honeymoon phase feels like the most magical thing in the world because everything feels new and like uncharted territory. 

In the same way, you get excited when you get a brand-new pair of shoes or phone, the same concept applies to a relationship – 100x more, of course! [Read: 14 stages of a new relationship to define your budding romance]

But the more important question is, how long does the honeymoon phase last, and what are the signs that it’s begun to fade away?

When does the honeymoon phase occur? 

For most people, the honeymoon phase begins very early on in a relationship. It could be the moment they set their eyes upon their partner *love at first sight* or it could take them a while to warm up to their partner.

Even if a person has to ease into having deep feelings for their partner, it still happens in the beginning. It’s the time when you are developing a bond and connection with another person. [Read: The 20 cutest, most adorably awkward moments in a new relationship]

Bottom line is that everyone is different in terms of how quickly they get infatuated or fall in love. But it always occurs early on.

How long does the honeymoon phase last?

And the next thing we need to address is how long would this overly sweet phase last specifically for you. When do all the fun times come to a screeching halt? 

Truth be told, it’s a little more complicated than just a single number. And it’s not exactly something that stops all that suddenly. [Read: Puppy love – what it means, stages, 37 signs & ways to turn it into true love]

As we said above, it generally lasts anywhere between a month to a year.

But in order to determine just how long the honeymoon phase will last for you, you really have to know your relationship.

Still, we can help you figure out just about how long it’ll last for you and your new beau. Being prepared for the timeframe it lasts helps you understand your relationship better. [Read: Signs the honeymoon stage of your relationship is already over]

Do all relationships go through a honeymoon phase?

No, not all couples go through a honeymoon phase. But that doesn’t mean that there’s anything wrong with their relationship. And it could actually lead to a healthier relationship long term.

When people feel an instant spark with their partner, they might be blinded by this chemistry and not see the other person for who they really are.

But when they don’t have that overwhelming attraction at first, it could help them get to know one another more slowly. This makes them more realistic about the other person and the relationship overall.

In these cases, the chemistry grows over time instead of being immediate. There might be attraction and interest without the lust and longing of a “normal” honeymoon phase.

So, these slow-moving relationships often turn into long-lasting love, but the honeymoon phase is woven through over time rather than experiencing it all at once and having it fade away. [Read: What does it feel like to be in love? 33 must-know truths about being in love]

How to know for sure just how long the honeymoon phase lasts

Relationships aren’t all the same. Depending on the way you and your significant other interact together, it could change how long you’re in such a happy state. These questions can help you determine how long your honeymoon phase will last.

1. How long were you talking before you committed?

This may not seem like a huge deal, but it does play a role in how long your honeymoon phase will last. 

Truth be told, if you two have been seeing each other for a long time before making your relationship official, the phase might be shorter because you’ve already been in it – despite not being committed yet.

So if you’ve already been flirting and talking before becoming exclusive, that’s a factor if you’re asking – how long does the honeymoon phase last? [Read: The talking stage – how long does it last and how to progress to the next stage]

2. How comfortable are you with them?

The honeymoon phase ending is all about familiarity, security, and comfort. Do you still get really nervous whenever you go see them, or have you settled into a kind of comfort with them?

This makes a big difference in how long the honeymoon phase will last because when you become more comfortable around them, you act more like yourself and less like a giddy child with a crush. [Read: 14 signs you’re getting too comfortable with each other]

The moment you find yourself without the need to put your best foot forward all the time, that’s when this phase is about to end.

3. How integrated into their life are you?

Do you go to all of their family functions and events with their friends? If so, the honeymoon phase will end soon. 

When you begin to be included in all aspects of their life, you’ll get to see all of the good, the bad, and the ugly. This halts the honeymoon phase.

When your social circles are constantly colliding, this is a sign that you’re getting comfortable with one another. The fact that you include one another in each other’s lives means the excitement and giddy feelings are about to transform into a calmer kind of love. [Read: Meeting your boyfriend’s parents – 23 do’s don’ts and tips to impress them]

4. How often do you see them?

Are you with them every day, or do you go a few days to a week in between visits? 

If you don’t see them as often, the honeymoon phase will last much longer than if you see them daily. When you separate your time with them, you don’t get to further your relationship as quickly, making your honeymoon phase more drawn out.

But if you see one another frequently, maybe you’re coworkers or you live within the neighborhood, expect that the honeymoon phase won’t last very long. [Read: How often should you see your boyfriend or girlfriend?]

5. Where is your physical relationship?

This is really important. Depending on how physical the two of you are, it can change the length of your honeymoon phase. 

When you’re really quick to get physical or have sex, it’ll be much shorter because you’ll exhaust all of those new feelings of wild passion and lust.

But if you take longer and delay sexual gratification, that excitement lasts a long time. 

If you both take much longer to break the touch barrier and to be physically affectionate and intimate with one another, the honeymoon phase will generally last much longer. [Read: Easy ways to keep intimacy alive in a relationship]

6. Are you in it for the butterflies only?

All relationships start with butterflies in the stomach when we meet someone we’re infatuated with. It’s natural to feel this way for a while, especially when you’re just getting to know each other.

However, ask yourself if you’re willing to go beyond your relationship, past the butterflies in your stomach.

Some people like the experience of falling in love *a.k.a. the honeymoon phase* but get bored by calm love. So, if you want to know if your honeymoon phase is ending, ask yourself if you’re starting to get bored.  

7. Do you still feel insecure?

During a couple’s honeymoon phase, there are many times when you feel secure and loved.

It would even seem like you’re living the dream with your lover. But after that phase, you’d go back to normal and won’t experience the high or flutter of lust anymore.

Initially, the insecurity of your relationship keeps you on a high, even if it scares you. But how do you feel now? Do you trust them completely and feel secure knowing the relationship is real? 

This is a sign that the honeymoon phase is starting to mellow down and turn into something more stable and real. [Read: How to ask a guy where you stand and not seem needy or insecure]

8. How often do you have fun together?

The best thing about being in a relationship is the fun things you do with your partner. This could be watching your favorite movie series, cooking together, going to the beach, or just sharing a laugh. 

Everything’s exciting, even the most mundane tasks like doing the laundry or washing the dishes together!

As your honeymoon phase starts to wane, one or both of you may start to take a back seat, especially with chores or routines. You or your partner may be busy with work, or exhausted after a long hard day. 

So, observe your relationship if it changes into something boring or predictable. 

If you’re wondering how long does the honeymoon phase last, it lasts for as long as even the most boring chores seem exciting and fun when done together. [Read: The one-month anniversary – 15 things couples learn in 30 days]

9. How often do you use your phones when you’re together?

Using our phones or texting while we’re with our partners is a bit annoying and rude unless you’re using it because something came up. When you see your partner texting or playing games on their phone, what do you do or feel? 

If one or both of you are comfortable sitting on the couch and surfing on your phones, instead of staring into your partner’s eyes, chances are, that’s the waning of the honeymoon phase. 

10. The first fight… Of many!

The first fight in a relationship is always an awkward thing. Of course, the making-up after the first fight is sexy! [Read: The art of make-up fights – how to master the romp after the rage!]

In the honeymoon phase, no one really fights at all. Both of you are eager to give in to the other partner’s wants and desires. 

But once that starts to cool off, real life enters the picture. If one or both of you get annoyed with the other person, start missing your other friends, or even if you both have a big fight, that’s a good sign your honeymoon stage is about to end.

Does this honeymoon phase have to end?

Let’s get to this straight away before we go any further.

This particular phase in a relationship is the most exciting and loved-up time of a new romantic relationship. You’re always happy, anxious, excited, and dreamy, and nothing ever gets you down. 

You enjoy every moment with them, and you never even fight. It seems perfect. But relationships can’t stay like that. [Read: 23 secrets and real life problems that make a relationship stronger]

Why not? Because the honeymoon phase is not reality. Instead of giving and taking in equal parts, the honeymoon stage is all about giving in endlessly instead of compromising *because you’re both smitten*. 

The honeymoon phase has to come to an end at some point, and when it does, you’ll need some help.[Read: Am I in love? 47 fuzzy signs of being in love that’s beyond lust and crushes]

While the honeymoon phase seems perfect and too good to be true, you need to remember that it doesn’t often last very long. This is why they say the strength of a relationship is based on its ability to surpass this particular stage. 

Generally, the honeymoon stage lasts anywhere from a month or a year *or more* depending on several factors that play a big part in keeping things fresh and exciting. We’ll get to these factors in a bit.

Is the waning of the honeymoon phase a bad thing? 

Of course not! It definitely isn’t a bad thing. 

The honeymoon phase is just the first stage of love, where both partners are still smitten silly and desperate to win each other over. But after that, real-life always seeps in, and so do your true colors!

And honestly, being on your best behavior and changing who you are overnight just to please someone can get tiring after a while! 

So as good as the honeymoon phase is, you really need to be thankful when it ends because that’s when true love begins. [Read: Does true love exist? 21 signs to recognize it and make you a believer]

And it’s when everyone starts to realize that this is the real relationship the moment the honeymoon phase ends. Why? 

It’s easy for a relationship to work in the honeymoon phase. After all, it’s the phase where all the butterflies and romance feel most alive.

You see your partner with rose-tinted eyes as if they could do no wrong. But once this stage ends, that’s when your relationship settles into a warm and secure love. [Read: Love vs. lust and all the signs to know what you’re feeling]

When you no longer feel the butterflies in your stomach, do you still feel the love? Do you still choose to stay?

If what you have is real, the end of the honeymoon phase shouldn’t depict the end of your story – it should represent the beginning of true love. 

So, you really shouldn’t fear the honeymoon phase ending. Instead, you should look forward to the excitement being replaced with feelings of warmth and comfort. [Read: Love is patient love is kind – 14 rules to experience true love]

Signs that the honeymoon stage is over

Almost everyone starting a new relationship goes through the honeymoon stage, and in almost every relationship, that stage does come to an end. However, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. 

So what are the signs that you are coming toward the end of the honeymoon stage?

The following list describes some of those signs that the honeymoon period is indeed coming to an end, but more importantly, also explains what these signs mean in the broader context of your relationship as a whole – and how they can actually be a good thing.

1. You’re more comfortable with each other

The fact is that there comes a point in a relationship when you stop holding it in.

Whereas previously, you would have suffered stomach cramps with heroic endurance in a desperate bid to keep your good standing, trying to impress eventually has less importance. 

And that’s a good thing. It shows that not only do you feel comfortable with each other, but that you are at last comfortable with yourselves. Enjoy the freedom! [Read: Signs you’re getting too comfortable with each other]

2. Communication slows down a bit

Do you remember when you were constantly on the phone with each other, and in those brief moments that you weren’t, the popping tones of newly arrived text messages were constant? 

Well, that may have slowed down to a point where you’re both communicating with each other at a far slower rate – at normal punctuations in the daytime routine.

This isn’t something that particularly needs to be mourned. All it means is that the desperate need to remind the other of your presence is no longer quite so insistent. 

And let’s face it, you’re probably being far more productive now that you’re not on the phone 24 hours a day. [Read: 42 secrets to communicate better in a relationship and ways to fix a lack of it]

3. You get annoyed by the little things

In the first throes of love, you appear to be blind to any faults and flaws that your partner might have. [Read: Boundaries in a relationship – 43 healthy dating rules you MUST set early on]

When the honeymoon stage is over, however, suddenly you realize they have all these pretty irritating habits.

They play with their phone at the dining table instead of talking to you, they leave the toilet seat up, and they never wear matching socks. 

Even things you used to think were cute suddenly start to get on your nerves – they just aren’t as adorable as they used to be.

4. You fancy them a little bit less

You used to think they were super gorgeous and every single time you met up with them, your heart would do a little flutter at how attracted you were to them. Now, you think those trainers look really dumb, or their haircut makes them look a bit weird. [Read: New relationship advice to have the perfect start]

5. The masks come off

That whole thing that you do during the honeymoon period where you’re constantly trying to impress the apple of your eye with tales of how wonderful you are, well, that can stop now.

Most people wear a “mask” of their best selves, but you can’t keep it on forever. If they love you, they’ll love you for who you are, and this is one ending to the honeymoon period that pretty much everyone is probably happy about.

6. You don’t mind telling them off 

Before, if they chucked their clothes on the floor instead of putting them away, or would always leave washing the dishes until the morning, you didn’t want to say anything. 

Now you are more than happy to tell them when they are doing or saying things that you don’t like. [Read: Are relationship fights normal? 15 signs you’re fighting too often]

7. You start to like having space

During the honeymoon stage, you used to be joined at the hip, but now if you spend too much time together, you get on each other’s nerves or simply run out of things to say. [Read: 15 ways to give space in a relationship and feel closer than ever before]

You realize that all those friends you’ve been neglecting as of late are far better company. You just hope they’re still talking to you after you abandoned them to slobber all over your new squeeze.

8. Not always looking your best

It is likely the case, when the honeymoon period starts to fade off into normality, that you don’t quite take the same level of care of yourself and your appearance. 

Not that it’s acceptable to start showering with a can and wearing the same pair of underwear for a week at a time. That’s foul in any circumstances. [Read: 13 relationship mistakes new couples make all the time]

Maybe the three-hour-long meticulous grooming campaign you used to ensure upon has suffered somewhat. And that’s not a bad thing, as long as you make at least some effort in the presence of your significant other. 

It’s time to start being comfortable with yourself and your partner and enjoying the real boons of true love.

9. You don’t have to fall asleep cuddling

Now, you feel perfectly okay telling your partner that it’s really uncomfortable trying to fall asleep in someone else’s arms. 

You have a quick cuddle before lights out but then shuffle as far away from one another as possible. Cue the best night’s sleep you’ve had in six months. [Read: How to cuddle someone – a guide to snuggle up and feel the love]

10. You know exactly where you stand

The beginning of relationships, while very exciting, can feel pretty unstable and nerve-wracking. You really like them, but by putting yourself out there you feel a little vulnerable, and never 100% certain they feel the same.

The end of the honeymoon stage is the start of a more settled phase where you aren’t worried if they don’t text you back right away, if they cancel a date, or are too tired for sex. [Read: The stages of dating for a successful relationship]

11. You have sex less often

So, you used to feel pretty much insatiable when it came to getting down and dirty in the bedroom, but lately, you are more than happy to settle down, watch a bit of Netflix, and get an early night.

Often, couples worry when their sex life starts to die down a little, but this is totally normal. It’s okay not to want to make sweet love 5 times every night when you have to get up at 7 a.m. for an early catch-up with your boss – really, it is.

12. You can admit you don’t actually like that band, movie, etc. 

When you first get together, you love the things they love – they are totally fascinating and cool, and therefore, all their hobbies are too. [Read: How to have a long-term relationship that lasts]

As the honeymoon stage ends, you can admit that you still find playing video games as boring as you did before you met them. 

And you are not actually that into jazz – it just seemed super romantic and sexy at the time.

13. You argue

Don’t panic because you have an argument every once in a while. Even the happiest of couples can’t see eye to eye 100% of the time. 

Getting to know one another more deeply means that you probably will end up having things that you feel differently about, and that can sometimes cause you to clash. 

Being willing to listen to one another and work through it shows that you both care enough to want this to work. [Read: How to resolve conflict – the 15 best ways to cut out the drama]

14. You aren’t quite as *ahem* delicate as you used to be

You let out the occasional fart or burp, you start peeing and chatting away with the door open. 

Of course, you wouldn’t dream of doing anything so based on the first few months of dating, but, you know, things are different now. [Read: Real signs of true love in a relationship]

While this is perfectly normal, remember that it is nice to preserve some mystique sometimes.

15. You become more honest with each other

There is probably not anyone who hasn’t been in a situation where they’ve tried a little bit too hard to impress a potential partner during the early stages of the relationship – pretending you love Vietnamese food, for example, because it’s one of their favorites when you actually abhor it. 

That’s all fine and well for a few months or so, but do you really want to maintain that pretense for the rest of your born days? Of course not. [Read: Taboo topics you should avoid in a new relationship]

Loving someone rather than being in love with them means you finally get to explain your likes, wants, and needs without any trepidation or hesitation. 

Yes, that might mean the honeymoon stage is over – but that was a pretty fair trade. Don’t you think?

16. You share more

When you are together for a longer period of time, you’ll start to share much more with each other. This shows that you trust one another not to judge and you form a deeper bond.

17. PDA oblivion

A dead giveaway as to the demise of the honeymoon stage in your relationship is the sudden absence of public displays of affection.

This can be a point of contention if one of the partners has a particular penchant or need for PDAs, and it’s something that can be easily righted. But if it’s entirely mutual, then there’s nothing to worry about. [Read: Public display of affection – how to do it, PDA etiquette, and 26 must-knows]

Just accept that things have moved on and as you’ve become more comfortable with each other, that need to advertise your togetherness is less pressing. Not a bad thing at all.

18. Words of affection may decrease

You know which three we’re talking about – if not, then you’re reading the wrong feature! Okay, post-honeymoon period, these words might get said less, but this isn’t necessarily anything to worry about. 

It could just mean that you are both secure in what you have together. If this is the case, then congratulations are far more in order than the opposite. [Read: Reasons saying “I love you” too soon sucks]

19. You both relax

Quite simply, all those months of being constantly on edge and being over-aware of how you should be presenting yourself are a thing of the past. 

You might worry that the absence of a constant need to make the best impression signals the end of a glorious period. But isn’t it better to relax in a comfort zone with someone who knows and loves you than pretend to be something you’re not?

20. You rediscover yourself and your interests

The key to a happy and fulfilling relationship is to not only nurture it but also to nurture yourself. [Read: 28 self-improvement secrets to improve yourself and transform into your best self]

With the honeymoon period out of the way, you can start tending to yourself again in order to ensure that you can contribute to the relationship as a healthy and strong individual.

21. You scarcely give or receive compliments

In the honeymoon stage, you have rose-colored glasses on, and all you can see is your partner’s good characteristics. Because of that, you’re always ready with a compliment because they’re on the tip of your tongue.

But if you’re not doing that anymore – and neither are they – then the honeymoon stage is probably over. It’s not that you still don’t think about these things, you just forget to say them. [Read: 20 funny compliments you can use to flatter and make them last]

22. You don’t daydream about your future together 

If you used to lay in bed at night and think about happily ever after with your partner, but you notice that you don’t anymore, that could be a sign. The thought of marriage and a family isn’t as urgent as it used to be.

You probably still want a future with them, you’re just not planning it out together or just in your head. That’s because you’re both more relaxed about it and know it will come in time.

23. You don’t miss them in their absence

When you first met, you wanted to see each other 24/7 and couldn’t stand being apart. You ate, drank, and slept with each other because you wanted to. [Read: How to make someone miss you and regret ever leaving your side]

But now, you kind of miss your alone time. So, you might be asking for some nights to yourself or to go out with your friends. You’re not as obsessed with seeing them all the time and you don’t miss them as much.

24. You stop idolizing each other’s family

Of course, you want your partner’s family to love and accept you. And in the beginning, you might even idolize them and think they’re just as awesome as your partner.

But as time goes on, you start to see how annoying their mom or little sister is. You might even hope to get out of some of their family gatherings because they aren’t as perfect as you once thought they were. [Read: How to get along with your partner’s family – create a lifelong bond]

25. You know your love is real

In the honeymoon period, you might feel all super loved up, but it’s actually still quite fickle, and fragile too. 

When you’ve gotten to the point that you’ve had a few ups and downs and seen each other’s not-so-amazing side, yet you still want to be together – well, that’s a pretty good sign! [Read: 57 warm signs to tell if a man is in love with you and really serious about you]

What to do when the honeymoon phase ends

If you’re not prepared for the honeymoon phase to end, it can be extra difficult to deal with. These are the most important things for you to remember when that fresh excitement starts to fizzle out.

1. Reassess how you feel

The honeymoon phase being over does NOT mean that your relationship is getting worse. But at this point, you have to reassess how you feel about the person. 

Do you still see a future with them and enjoy their company, or has most of your affection faded? Be honest with yourself. [Read: What is true love? 22 signs of love to know if your love is real]

This is where the rose-tinted glasses disappear, and you see your partner for who they truly are, flaws, warts, and all. So, if you still genuinely feel something, you should know by this point forward.

2. Figure out what brings about arguments

We’re sure you’ve noticed that you’re arguing more and more as your honeymoon phase fizzles out. Your job is to determine what the arguments are about. 

Are they things you just are getting used to about the person, or are they significant and repetitive, and can change your opinion of them?

While arguments are expected when the honeymoon phase ends, you need to use it as an eye-opener. [Read: Are relationship fights normal? 15 signs you’re fighting too much]

3. Remember that it’s normal

Don’t forget that the honeymoon phase is not supposed to last the entire relationship. It’s entirely normal and expected for it to end and for you to be faced with a different kind of relationship that’s more comfortable and caring.

4. It’s not the end of your relationship

The honeymoon phase ending does not mean your partner is caring less for you.

It’s not the end of your relationship, in fact, it is the beginning. Just remember that every couple settles into a comfortable norm instead of being excited and giddy all the time.

If your relationship settles into a warm fire instead of a burning passion for one another, that’s okay. 

This is normal in a relationship, and in fact, this is more real than the lust-driven stage of the honeymoon phase. [Read: Why do guys distance themselves after intimacy? How to handle this part of men]

5. Think of the things that made you two happiest

When you’re arguing after the honeymoon phase has ended, it can be easy to forget about why you were happy with them in the first place. Think back to those things and try to make them happen again.

It’s easy to go back to the honeymoon phase and rekindle the spark you once had for one another. All it takes is a few romantic gestures to get yourself back to that phase, even if it’s just for a while.

6. Use the conflict as a means to get to know them

Instead of seeing these conflicts as a bad thing, take them as a learning opportunity.

You can find out a lot about a person by what makes them upset and how they solve issues. You’ll be able to tell if they’re really a person you want to be with for life.

Similar to what we said earlier on conflict, instead of being afraid of conflict, use it as an opportunity to deepen your connection with them.

7. Reestablish why you’re with them

Did they win you over and now they stopped doing anything kind, or are they still the same person but your feelings have changed? Reestablish why you’re with them and what you like most.

If you find your honeymoon phase ending, remind yourself of all the reasons why you’re with them or are attracted to them. When this stage ends, this is when being in love with them becomes more of a choice rather than an addiction.

8. Set your expectations right away

Have a discussion. Talk about the state of your relationship and how it’s beginning to be serious, and then set your expectations. [Read: 20 healthy expectations in a relationship that define a good love life]

Don’t let them get away with stopping every nice thing they used to do in the honeymoon phase.

While your partner can’t be a hundred percent consistent all the time, they need to know that you have certain expectations. 

When you lay your expectations and standards, you are aware of what you both need and want in a relationship – even past the honeymoon phase.

9. Communicate – a LOT

People’s biggest mistake in their relationships is hiding how they feel about it. Open up and talk about how you realize the honeymoon phase has ended and that you want to make sure they know you’re still happy.

This might sound like an overrated piece of advice, but there’s a reason communication is at the heart of relationships.

If the honeymoon phase is about to end and real life is slipping into your relationship, it’s even more crucial to discuss this with your partner. Express your feelings and listen to what one another has to say.

10. Spice things up

This can be in the bedroom or just in general. After the first few months, you may start to fall into a routine with them. And while this is normal, it can make you feel like things are becoming stale and your partner is losing interest.

Making things new again can bring back that initial spark. Just because this exciting phase has ended, it doesn’t mean the sparks have to die altogether. You can both choose not to be complacent with your relationship, so it doesn’t feel too much of a routine. [Read: How to keep the love alive in any relationship]

11. Accept your partner’s flaws

This is when you realize your partner isn’t flawless and you stop expecting them to be. It’s more romantic to show your flaws and be appreciated for them than to be expected to be flawless.

To develop a long-lasting relationship with your partner, you must be able to accept your partner for who they are. And as a couple, you should also learn how to embrace the end of the honeymoon phase.

12. Identify what your relationship will truly be like

The reality of the relationship kicks in, and you can imagine your life with this person when the honeymoon phase is over.

Your significant other was probably on their best behavior at first, but now is the opportunity to discover who they are.

Their non-impressive behavior is telling. Do you appreciate spending time with them at home on a Tuesday night as much as a brief date? 

Sooner or later, you’ll get a clearer understanding of who this person is and what your life together will be like. [Read: 25 best relationship topics to talk about if you want to be happy]

13. Be okay with the changes in your sex life

Less frequent sex is the most common symptom of the honeymoon phase. When it comes to long-term relationships, this is a relatively common event that affects almost all couples at some point.

It is a period that is intended to end, as opposed to continuing. And come on, who has the time for that much sex for the rest of their lives? [Read: How to have better sex – ways to change the way you make love]

14. Remain positive and consistent

It’s a good indicator if your partner keeps up the positive behavior after the first lovey-dovey sensations fade. To maintain a stable relationship, consistency is vital.

The early phases of a relationship are excellent, but they can only last so long. So, pay attention to your partner’s post-honeymoon phase behavior. 

You may have found “The One” if they continually improve the relationship and are consistent.

15. Celebrate the new phase of your relationship

Try not to worry about when the honeymoon phase will end, and enjoy it while you can. [Read: Relationship rules – 30 must-know relationship tips and advice to live your best love life]

This does not signify the end of your relationship unless you recognize that you were only attracted to this person due to the butterflies you had when you first met them.

In a good relationship, the end of the honeymoon period is only the beginning. It will be stronger than any physical desire or butterflies in your stomach as you get to know one other, go through ups and downs together, and make more memories.

Can you ever get back to the honeymoon stage?

Everyone loves the honeymoon stage, and most miss it when it’s gone. So, is there a way to get it back? There are a few things you can do to try.

1. Communication is number one

Communication is the glue that holds a relationship together. A lack of it can tear a couple apart or at least cause them to grow apart. 

So, you have to talk to each other. Tell your partner that you want to try to reinvent your honeymoon stage. They’ll probably feel the same. [Read: 47 sweet ways to tell someone you love them with your words and actions]

2. Continue to date each other

Too many couples get lazy as time goes on. Fun dates are replaced with watching movies on the couch at home. So, get back to dating each other! 

Dress up and go to a restaurant or do a fun new activity together. You don’t have to spend a lot of money, but you do have to put in the effort. [Read: Romantic dinner date ideas – 17 fun dates you both will never forget]

3. Reinvent your couplehood

Ask yourselves what you want to do together as a couple. What do you want to do with your partner and no one else? 

This thought process can apply to everything you do, from your sex life to your next vacation. Figure out what you’re willing to do differently and get out of your comfort zones.

[Read: The first year of marriage – surprising truths no one talks about]

The end of the honeymoon stage signals the beginning of a new phase in the relationship – not its end. Enjoy the progression and give yourself a pat on the back for successfully getting through to the next stages of the relationship game.