A couple’s relationship experiences a blissful, carefree honeymoon phase. Because they are still getting to know one another, neither partner can think of many issues with the other.
The honeymoon phase typically lasts between six months and two years and is characterized by lots of intimacy, humor, and enjoyable dates.
If you’re still reading, you’re probably also acquainted with the apprehension that often surfaces as the honeymoon period fades. It can be simple to wonder about the future of the relationship when the state of complete bliss and nonstop PDA ends.
What is the Honeymoon Phase?
Early in a relationship, when everything seems carefree and joyful, is known as the honeymoon phase. It typically lasts between six months and two years and can be characterized by lots of intimacy, laughter, and enjoyable dates.
Of course, the honeymoon period is just that—a period. It eventually comes to an end, forcing both partners to adapt to a new, more durable reality. The honeymoon phase may end sooner than desired for some couples or may never begin for others.
How Long Does It Last?
Every couple and circumstance differs too much to define a “normal” length of time, but the honeymoon phase could last anywhere from the first couple of months to the first couple of years. Additionally, how much time you spent with your significant other will play a role. In contrast to a long-distance couple who only occasionally see one another, the novelty of a relationship is more likely to wear off if you immediately spend every day together. The time it takes for the novelty to wear off doesn’t mean that the love is any less intense.
The honeymoon stage may come to an end in some relationships in a specific moment, like a heated argument that makes you see some warning signs or flaws you hadn’t noticed before, but it usually happens gradually over time. You might start noticing little quirks about your partner that you hadn’t noticed before, or you might notice that you’re making fewer efforts to get ready for dates. Although you’ll probably disagree more than you did at first in the relationship, you’ll also learn to communicate with your partner.
Can You Extend It?
How then can we ensure that our relationships are on the longer side if the duration of the honeymoon phase varies?
“One of the many factors that affect the length [of the honeymoon phase] is how emotionally and mentally healthy each partner is,” explained Dr. Kristie Overstreet, a psychotherapist and host of the Fix Yourself First podcast. “This phase can last longer if you are concentrating on how you can be your healthiest version of yourself and improving your ability to communicate with your partner.”
The length of the honeymoon period can sometimes have more to do with how you feel about yourself than with your partner, in case you needed another justification to fit in some self-care. In other words, your relationship with your partner will be healthier the healthier your relationship with yourself. Set your own relationships, interests, and needs first. Improve your communication skills to let your partner know what you need from them and to resolve differences amicably rather than allowing them to escalate into full-blown arguments.
On the other hand, the end of the honeymoon period is nothing to fear, and it does not imply that your relationship is any less exciting. It may even be cause for celebration. Consider this: You’ve successfully navigated the phase marked by butterflies and physical attraction, and now, butterflies aside, you’re in a phase where you can truly forge a strong friendship and partnership. After the honeymoon period has passed, keep reading for advice on how to maintain a strong, happy relationship.
What to Do When the Honeymoon Phase Ends
Identify What Your Relationship Will Truly Be Like
It’s only after the honeymoon period has passed and reality of the relationship has set in that you can truly imagine how the rest of your life would be with this person. The beginning of your relationship was probably when your significant other was acting their best; now is the time when you start to see them for who they truly are. When they’re not attempting to impress you, how do they treat you? Do you cherish the time you spend with them as much on a quick date night as you do when you’re relaxing at home on a Tuesday? You’ll have a better understanding of who this person is and what your future together would be like after the butterflies, initial physical attraction, and newness have subsided.
Accept Your Partner’s Flaws
This is the point where you realize the other person is not perfect, and more importantly, you stop thinking you need perfect. But you’ll also stop attempting to hide them (i.e., shaving your legs every few days rather than right before a date) as they start noticing your flaws.
However, there is something even more romantic about being loved despite your flaws as opposed to being expected to be perfect (hint: nobody is). Ilana Dunn, host of Seeing Other People, is a firm believer that you should embrace the end of the honeymoon phase. “While it’s fun to get swept up in the fantasy and excitement, the ability to accept your partner for who they are, flaws and all, is extremely important in building a lasting relationship,” she said.
Be OK With Changes in Your Sex Life
The most frequent sign that the honeymoon phase is over, according to couples, is when sex stops happening as frequently. This is another very normal occurrence in a long-term relationship, and one that all couples experience at one point or another. While the honeymoon phase can absolutely make a reappearance after big relationship milestones (such as moving in together, getting engaged, or going on your actual honeymoon), it is a phase that is meant to end (Nobody could possibly have that much sex for the rest of their lives, after all.).
The Takeaway
The “rut” is a natural part of any relationship’s evolution, but it doesn’t have to stay there. Get imaginative and put a few (or all) of the above suggestions to use to begin viewing your partner and your relationship in a completely new light. It will be similar to falling in love once more.
FAQs
How Long is the Honeymoon Stage of a Relationship?
From two months to two years, the honeymoon period can last. The amount of time a couple spends in this phase varies considerably2 depending on the way the relationship begins, what’s going on in their personal lives, the personalities of the partners, how long it takes for them to fall in love, and other elements.
What is the 3 Month Rule Honeymoon Phase?
The three-month rule basically states that you and your ex must wait three months before dating again after a breakup. Waiting it out and lamenting the end of your relationship. Continue living your separate lives as you normally would and watch what transpires.
What is the 3 Month Rule in Dating?
The three-month waiting period after a breakup essentially means that all former partners must wait three months before starting a new relationship. This social rule exists to give the parties involved a break, some breathing room, and possibly some room for forgiveness.