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45 Things You Should Never Say In a Relationship

Charlotte Hilton Andersen

September 29, 2016 at 3:22 PM

<p>Nix these toxic phrases from your conversations with your S.O.</p>

<p>"Too often we fill in that blank with a negative word or statement that reflects what we see as a critical problem with our partner. Yet the words 'always' and 'never' are rarely true and only serve to make your partner feel 'less than'," says Darylevuanie Johnson, a relationship expert and licensed psychotherapist.</p><p><strong>RELATED: <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/love-sex/relationships/g3701/relationship-red-flags/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:57 Major Relationship Red Flags to Watch Out For;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">57 Major Relationship Red Flags to Watch Out For </a></strong><br></p>

<p>"Never compare your partner intimately to someone else. Even if you think you're trying to help, this can dig deep and leave a wound that <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/love-sex/relationships/advice/a20763/unhappy-marriage/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:you may not be able to mend;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">you may not be able to mend</a>," says Jeanie Winstrom, M.S., a couples therapist at <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://www.talkspace.com/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Talkspace;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Talkspace</a><span>.</span></p>

<p>"You can fill in the blank with anything you wish your partner would be but isn't ― funny, easygoing, frugal — but know that whenever you try to change your partner you are headed for <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/love-sex/g2817/ruining-your-marriage/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:disaster;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">disaster</a> in the relationship," says Bree Maresca-Kramer, a therapist and the author of <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://itsthatsimple.ws/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:It's That Simple;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><i>It's That Simple</i></a>. </p>

<p>"Don't say anything dismissive in the middle of a conversation as a way to avoid talking about <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/love-sex/relationships/g788/womens-marriage-complaints/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:something uncomfortable;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">something uncomfortable</a>. Dropping a conversation midway diminishes the importance of the relationship and makes your partner feel unheard," says Nicki Nance, Ph.D., a licensed mental health counselor. </p>

<p>"Making someone feel worthless is harmful as it cuts to the core value of a person. It's emotionally and spiritually violent, and it chips away at a person's self-worth," says Natasha Sandy, a counselor and therapist at <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.youmatterpt.com/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:You Matter;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">You Matter</a>. "It's much easier to stop yourself from saying such disrespectful, hurtful words than it is to try <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/love-sex/relationships/g3578/surprising-things-all-successful-marriages/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:undoing the damage afterward;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">undoing the damage afterward</a>."</p>

<p>"Actually, you probably do care," says Ana Aluisy, a licensed therapist and the author of <em><a rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01BBYXE2Y/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?tag=syndication-20&_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Reinvent Your Relationship: A Therapist's Insights to Having the Relationship You've Always Wanted;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Reinvent Your Relationship: A Therapist's Insights to Having the Relationship You've Always Wanted</a></em>. "Not saying what you want and need is a surefire way to make sure you don't get it. It's lying to yourself and is confusing for your partner."</p><p><strong>RELATED: <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/love-sex/relationships/g3661/things-to-never-do-in-a-healthy-relationship/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:53 Things You Should Never Do In a Healthy Relationship;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">53 Things You Should Never Do In a Healthy Relationship</a></strong><br></p>

<p>"This isn't always a bad thing to say but people often use it as a reflex instead of saying what they really feel. If you or the situation is not fine, then don't say it is," says Anita Chlipala, a relationship expert and owner of <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://relationshipreality312.com/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Relationship Reality 312;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Relationship Reality 312</a>. "Using 'fine' can leave things unresolved and can breed resentment. It can also prevent a couple from working through problems together and creating a more <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/love-sex/relationships/g3578/surprising-things-all-successful-marriages/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:solid relationship;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">solid relationship</a>."</p>

<p>"Don't say anything dismissive in the middle of a conversation as a way to avoid talking about something uncomfortable. First, how can they forget it if they never knew it? Second, dropping a conversation midway <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/love-sex/relationships/tips/a121/289121/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:diminishes the importance of the relationship;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">diminishes the importance of the relationship</a> and makes your partner feel unheard," says Nance. </p>

<p>"Name-calling of any kind, even when done in a joking way, can communicate criticism and <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/love-sex/relationships/a10922/signs-youre-in-a-toxic-marriage/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:hurt your partner;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">hurt your partner</a>," says Aluisy.</p>

<p>"Anyone who wants to regulate their partner's personal choices, like how they dress or what they eat, wants a hostage, not a relationship. But that doesn't mean they can't voice their opinion or say their feelings," says Nance. Just find a <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/love-sex/mens-perspective/a16799/why-do-men-shut-down/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:more constructive way to communicate;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">more constructive way to communicate</a>.</p>

<p>"You should never under any circumstances <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/love-sex/relationships/advice/a16260/fix-male-behavior/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:call your partner stupid;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">call your partner stupid</a>. Insulting another human being's intelligence is cruel and counterproductive," says Rhonda Richards-Smith, licensed psychotherapist and relationship expert.</p>

<p>"If you tell your significant other that they're being crazy. it says to them that you don't respect them or care about their opinion. You're not only insinuating that they are being ridiculous, but that their feelings are insane. It makes the other person feel invalidated for being vulnerable enough to express their feelings. If you love your partner, you want them to feel secure when they are low, not more insecure," says Lori Bizzoco, relationship expert and executive editor of <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://cupidspulse.com/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Cupid's Pulse;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Cupid's Pulse</a>.</p><p><strong>RELATED: <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/life/mom-kids/advice/g3649/things-you-should-never-say-to-children/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:50 Things You Should Never, Ever Say to Children;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">50 Things You Should Never, Ever Say to Children </a></strong><br></p>

<p>"Don't say anything critical of your partner's appearance. And this is true for both genders! <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/love-sex/mens-perspective/advice/g800/what-men-dont-say/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Men can be just as sensitive as women;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Men can be just as sensitive as women</a>," says Roberta Temes, Ph.D, psychotherapist and author.</p>

<p>"Demeaning comments about your partner's physical appearance are disrespectful and can put a real dent in your partner's confidence in themselves and the relationship itself. Such comments can also <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/life/advice/g3348/fighting-relationships-marriage-advice/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:create barriers to intimacy;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">create barriers to intimacy</a>. Once something like this is said, he or she may see your love as conditional and may forever question the depth of your love and commitment," Sandy explains.</p>

<p>"You can express your feelings about your partner's behavior, but you should never criticize their character. Not only do those criticisms cut deep and damage the relationship, but they also won't motivate your partner to reflect on and change their behavior," says Melody Li, a licensed couples therapist.</p>

<p>"Telling someone you wish they could take you to a fancy restaurant or some other expensive treat really says '<a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/life/a41974/husband-and-i-keep-finances-separate/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:I wish you made more money;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">I wish you made more money</a>.' This just makes you seem shallow and it's not fair to fault someone for their limited salary," says Dion Metzger, M.D. a psychiatrist and co-author of <em><a rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HN822P2/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?tag=syndication-20&_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:The Modern Trophy Wife: How To Achieve Your Life Goals While Thriving at Home;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">The Modern Trophy Wife: How To Achieve Your Life Goals While Thriving at Home</a></em>.</p>

<p>"Demanding lavish gifts or money is playing manipulative financial games. Love should never be conditional, <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/life/money-career/a39542/money-saving-mantras/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:especially not on money;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">especially not on money</a>," says Sandy.</p>

<p>"Capitulation is not negotiation. You will not like yourself more if there is less of you, and neither will he," says Patricia A. O'Gorman, Ph.D., NYS psychologist and author of nine books including <em><a rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00OBGGIFU/ref=dp-kindle-redirect?tag=syndication-20&_encoding=UTF8&btkr=1" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:The Girly Thoughts 10-Day Detox;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">The Girly Thoughts 10-Day Detox</a></em>.</p><p><strong>RELATED: <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/love-sex/a41304/ignoring-relationship-red-flags/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:15 "Red Flags" Married Couples Ignored But Had No Impact on Their Relationship;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">15 "Red Flags" Married Couples Ignored But Had No Impact on Their Relationship</a></strong><br></p>

<p>Feeling that you aren't good enough to be loved or good enough for your partner is a very 'girly' thought — and not in a good way, O'Gorman says. You are already enough. And a person who loves you will accept you for who you are.</p>

<p>"Any statement that invalidates your partner's feelings is hurtful," says Johnson. "Telling your partner they are overreacting is <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/love-sex/relationships/a45360/husband-unemployment-can-predict-divorce/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:dismissive;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">dismissive</a> and signifies their emotions aren't important."</p>

<p>"It's never all one person's fault and blaming and shaming your partner feels like an emotional attack of rocket launchers," says <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://nadinemacaluso.com/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Nadine Macaluso;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Nadine Macaluso</a>, a licensed psychotherapist. "Instead, with a soft start-up tell your partner how you feel and explain what you are longing for."</p>

<p>"Other people <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/love-sex/relationships/tips/g3170/divorce-experts-advice/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:cannot 'make' us feel anything;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">cannot 'make' us feel anything</a>. As individuals, we control our own feelings," says Richards-Smith. "Instead of using this statement, try explaining what words or behaviors your partner engaged in that upset you."</p>

<p>"<a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/love-sex/mens-perspective/advice/g818/how-to-read-his-body-language/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Body language;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Body language</a> can say as much as spoken language and eye-rolling in a partnership can spell doom. Rolling your eyes is an act of dismissal and represents contempt and disgust to your partner," explains Tiffany Louise, a therapist and life coach.</p>

<p>"This shows a serious lack of respect and devalues the other person and the relationship," says Venessa Marie Perry, Ph.D., founder and chief relationship strategist at <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.lovejonesremix.com/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Love Jones: The Remix;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Love Jones: The Remix</a>. "This indicates that you are not ready for a mature, honest relationship."</p><p><strong>RELATED: <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/life/advice/g3349/marriage-relationship-advice-from-divorce-lawyers/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:10 Surprising Relationship Tips Divorce Lawyers Wish You Knew;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">10 Surprising Relationship Tips Divorce Lawyers Wish You Knew</a></strong><br></p>

<p>"Although you might not actually mean it, this is when the <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/love-sex/relationships/advice/a87/secrets-to-happy-marriage/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:communication is fueled with sarcasm;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">communication is fueled with sarcasm</a>, disgust, and superiority. Instead use your words to work towards a culture of appreciation, empathy, and compassion," says Macaluso.</p>

<p>"Although, most couples do not 'need' each other in the survival sense, it is comforting to feel wanted and needed. Most often when someone says this, they are saying it due to some strong emotion, like anger. Saying this can cause your partner to feel hurt and rejected," says Celia Trotta, M.D., a psychiatrist at <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.psychiatryhealth.com" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Psychiatry Health;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Psychiatry Health</a>.</p>

<p>"This is profoundly disrespectful and hurtful even if you just said it in the midst of a fight," says Sandy. "<a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/love-sex/relationships/advice/a10765/worst-words-in-a-marriage/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Things said out of anger cannot be unsaid;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Things said out of anger cannot be unsaid</a> and can cause deep emotional scars, create distrust, and plant seeds of doubt that will undermine your relationship."</p>

<p>"This statement sends a very abrupt and dismissive message to your partner that they can become expendable in an instant," says Rhonda Richards-Smith, licensed psychotherapist and relationship expert.</p>

<p>"Do not use this as a threat in an attempt to manipulate their behavior. It may work in the moment, but will backfire long-term," says Winstrom.</p>

<p>"Never say you're <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/love-sex/relationships/a43579/surviving-my-divorce/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:leaving;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">leaving</a> as a way to get your partner to change, unless you absolutely mean it. It is a manipulation and uses fear and after a while loses its meaning," says Evie Shafner, a couples' therapist in Los Angeles, CA. "When I got married I made a promise never to use the D word and in 35 years, I never have , and neither has he."</p><p><strong>RELATED: <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/life/advice/g3344/friends-divorce/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:7 Signs Your Friend's Divorce Is Hurting Your Marriage;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">7 Signs Your Friend's Divorce Is Hurting Your Marriage</a></strong><br></p>

<p>"Never and always are absolutes. But there are no absolutes in real life so they cannot be true. Using these words doesn't allow room for compromise and automatically puts people on the defensive," explains <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://huntforadvice.com/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Hunt Ethridge;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Hunt Ethridge</a>, a certified dating coach and co-founder of International Dating Coach Association.</p>

<p>"You should never say 'I'm sorry' when you don't mean it. This stops <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/life/friends-family/a40774/our-perfect-marriage-isnt-real/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:healthy communication;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">healthy communication</a> because if you really don't mean it that means you a) either don't understand why it hurt your partner and you need to understand first, or b) you are not asserting yourself when your partner's mad at you for no good reason. This will initiate a pattern of eventual resentment," says <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.cbtiofsocal.com" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Paul DePompo;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Paul DePompo</a>, Psy.D., author of <i>The Other Woman's Affair</i>.</p>

<p>"Forgetting or taking the little day-to-day affections for granted will slowly but surely erode your relationship," says Gail Saltz, Ph.D., an associate professor of psychiatry at The New York Presbyterian Hospital Weill-Cornel School of Medicine and host of "<a rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/power-different-dr.-gail-saltz/id1150907450?mt=2" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:The Power of Different;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">The Power of Different</a>" podcast. "You can never tell your partner too many times how much you love and care for them."</p>

<p>"Don't assume that your partner knows how you're feeling without you telling them. And it's important to verbally express your feelings since they drive behavior. Making <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/love-sex/advice/g1255/bad-relationship-habits/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:the other person read your mind;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">the other person read your mind</a> leads to doubt, confusion, anger, the silent treatment, or frequent arguments," explains Lynne Maureen Hurdle, author of the "Breaking Culture" column for <em>Psychology Today</em>.</p>

<p>"Don't shift blame for your <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/body/health-fitness/g2949/bad-habits-gone-good/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:bad behavior;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">bad behavior</a> to your partner by telling them they 'made' you do it," Milrad explains. "Your partner is trying to share their feelings of how your behavior has negatively impacted them. Launching into how yours were provoked by theirs feels minimizing and invalidating. It's better to convey your understanding of what they tell you and take responsibility. Another time, you can share your feelings about their behavior that bugs you."</p>

<p>"Never offer criticisms of your partner's family, even if you aren't a fan and find it difficult to spend time with them. People are <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/love-sex/relationships/advice/a14843/common-marriage-mistakes/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:sensitive about their family;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">sensitive about their family</a> and it's one thing for them to tell you that their mother is always anxious and agitated, but it's entirely different when you say it. Keep your insights to yourself and be as supportive and positive as you can with your partner about their clan," Rhonda Milrad, founder and CEO of <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://www.relationup.com/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Relationup;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Relationup</a>.</p><p><strong>RELATED: <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/love-sex/relationships/features/a41465/bad-relationship-advice/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:8 Pieces of Relationship Advice You Should Never Take;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">8 Pieces of Relationship Advice You Should Never Take</a></strong><br></p>

<p>"Love changes over time. The first year of a relationship is not going to feel the same as the twelfth year or the twentieth. Wishing the relationship was the way it used to be keeps partners stuck in a fairy tale. Instead, ask for what you want, right here, right now, and work on making the future of your relationship better," says Alexandra H. Solomon, Ph.D., an assistant professor and licensed clinical psychologist at Northwestern University and the author of <em><a rel="nofollow noopener" href="https://www.amazon.de/Loving-Bravely-Twenty-Lessons-Self-Discovery/dp/1626255814" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Loving Bravely: 20 Lessons of Self-Discovery to Help You Get the Love You Want;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Loving Bravely: 20 Lessons of Self-Discovery to Help You Get the Love You Want</a></em>.</p>

<p>"Unless you're saying this in a complementary way, don't say it. Even if it holds some truth, it's hitting below the belt and likely to trigger nothing but defensiveness," says Solomon. "Instead, describe the specific behavior your partner is exhibiting and talk about what that behavior stirs up within you. Leave all other <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/love-sex/relationships/advice/a13992/how-to-deal-with-in-laws/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:family members;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">family members</a> out of it."</p>

<p>"Too many women think they need the lights off during sex to <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/love-sex/relationships/g3685/things-spouses-hide-from-each-other/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:hide their physical flaws;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">hide their physical flaws</a>. They don't want their partner to see how heavy/flabby/thin/old/young they are," O'Gorman says.</p>

<p>"This is something that can never be taken back and will stay with your partner forever. When you attack them at this level, you're hitting them in a core of their identity and damaging their self-worth. Nothing you say after that will even be really heard. You can't walk this one back, ever," says Toni Coleman, a psychotherapist and relationship coach.</p>

<p>"You should never say you have had a better lover. No matter how you explain this, spin this, or attempt to make up for it, you will permanently wound your partner's ego. The reality is that there's an unspoken assumption that if you are with someone in a long-term relationship, especially marriage, they are <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/love-sex/sex/a45901/things-that-make-sex-great/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:the best lover the other has had;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">the best lover the other has had</a>," says Davondra Brown, a relationship and sex coach.</p>

<p>"It's OK to indicate that other people are attractive, but you should draw the line at saying you're attracted to them. It makes your partner unnecessarily nervous about your commitment," says DePompo.</p><p><strong>RELATED: <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/life/advice/g3327/what-your-husband-is-hiding-from-you/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:10 Sneaky Things Your Husband Is Hiding From You;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">10 Sneaky Things Your Husband Is Hiding From You</a></strong><br></p>

<p>"Don't tell someone you love them until you're sure that <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/love-sex/relationships/a46042/brad-pitt-angelina-jolie-love-quotes/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:you really and truly mean it;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">you really and truly mean it</a>. Jumping the gun is unfair to them and to you. Let the relationship develop naturally and don't try to rush things,"<br>says <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.drjohnmcgrail.com/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:John McGrail;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">John McGrail</a>, Ph.D., a relationship coach in<br>Los Angeles. </p>

<p>"Saying something like 'you complete me' is only good in movies. In real life, that level of neediness is toxic and often fatal to the relationship. If you do feel that way, it would be a very good idea to get professional help," says McGrail.</p>

<p>"This statement may sound <a rel="nofollow noopener" href="http://www.redbookmag.com/life/charity/g3205/best-romantic-comedies-filmed-today/" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:romantic;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">romantic</a> but it's a danger zone, signifying unhealthy attachment. It's not loving but clingy and desperate," says Johnson. "You want to be in love, not in a co-dependent relationship."</p>

Nix these toxic phrases from your conversations with your S.O.

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How to watch the 2024 WNBA preseason tonight: Caitlin Clark’s first Indiana Fever game time, channel and more
The WNBA preseason tips off this Friday. Here's how you can catch Caitlin Clark's first game.
Yahoo Sports
Formula 1: Miami Grand Prix sends cease and desist letter to prevent Donald Trump fundraiser during race
Race organizers say they'll revoke a Trump fundraiser's suite license if he holds an event for the former president on Sunday at the race.
Yahoo Sports
New details emerge in alleged gambling ring behind Shohei Ohtani-Ippei Mizuhara scandal
It turns out the money was going from Ohtani's bank account to an illegal bookie to ... casinos.
Yahoo Sports
NFL Draft grades for all 32 teams | Zero Blitz
Jason Fitz and Frank Schwab join forces to recap the draft in the best way they know how: letter grades! Fitz and Frank discuss all 32 teams division by division as they give a snapshot of how fans should be feeling heading into the 2024 season. The duo have key debates on the Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, New Orleans Saints, Los Angeles Rams, New England Patriots, Las Vegas Raiders and more.
Yahoo Sports
Lakers fire head coach Darvin Ham after just 2 seasons, latest playoff series loss to Nuggets
Despite a trip to the Western Conference finals in his first season with the team, the Lakers are now ready to look for a replacement for Darvin Ham.
Yahoo Sports
The best RBs for 2024 fantasy football according to our analysts
The Yahoo Fantasy football analysts reveal their first running back rankings for the 2024 NFL season.
Yahoo Finance
CVS stock plunges after earnings numbers one analyst 'did not even believe'
CVS warns it could cede Medicare Advantage market share as reimbursement rates pressure the company.
TechCrunch
Acura’s new all-electric SUV proves the most expensive model isn’t always the best
The first electric vehicle I ever drove was a Tesla Roadster in 2011. It was with great anticipation that I slid behind the wheel of the 2025 Acura ZDX Type S. Sure, it's a midsize SUV, but it wears the Type S moniker, a name reserved only for the most fun-to-drive in the Acura stable. On launch, the ZDX will be available in A-Spec and Type S trims -- both of which come equipped with a 102 kWh battery.
Yahoo Life Shopping
Does castor oil really help with hair growth? We asked the experts, and their answer may surprise you
It's inexpensive, but is it effective? Dermatologists' verdict is in — and it's unanimous.
Yahoo Sports
Diana Taurasi’s trash-talking, in-your-face ways may be a bit of a shock to new WNBA fans
Caitlin Clark fans beware: You never know what the 20-year veteran might say … or do.
Yahoo Sports
NBA playoffs: Kyrie Irving takes over to lead Mavericks past Clippers into 2nd-round matchup vs. Thunder
A tepid Clippers offense had no answer for Irving and Luka Dončić in an elimination game.
Yahoo Sports
Wide receiver rankings for fantasy football 2024
The Yahoo Fantasy football analysts reveal their first wide receiver rankings for the 2024 NFL season.
Yahoo Sports
NFL to allow players to wear protective Guardian Caps in games beginning with 2024 season
The NFL will allow players to wear protective Guardian Caps during games beginning with the 2024 season. The caps were previously mandated for practices.
Yahoo Sports
Tight end rankings for 2024 fantasy football 2024
The Yahoo Fantasy football analysts reveal their first tight end rankings for the 2024 NFL season.
Yahoo Life Shopping
Reba McEntire, 69, relies on this wrinkle-smoothing 'holy grail' moisturizer for radiant skin
Her makeup artist swears by it for this clever foundation trick for dewy, glowing coverage.
Yahoo Sports
MLB Power Rankings: Braves move into the top spot followed by Dodgers, Phillies as injuries take a toll across the league
From the Braves to the Marlins, here's where all 30 teams stand after the season's first month.
Yahoo Sports
Ex-Florida State QB and 1999 Fiesta Bowl starter Marcus Outzen dies at 46
The Seminoles lost 23-16 to Tennessee in the first-ever BCS title game.