14 Signs Your Partner Is Taking You For Granted

Getting comfortable in a relationship is generally seen as a good thing, but not when it translates into a lack of appreciation.

After a while, your partner might get used to all the little things you do to make their life (and your lives together) easier to the point that they start taking it — and you — for granted. If you’re not sure whether their lack of thanks for your effort was a temporary blip or indicative of a larger issue, here are some signs pointing towards the latter.

1. They rarely say “thank you.”

A simple “thank you” goes a long way in showing appreciation. If your partner rarely acknowledges the things you do for them, whether it’s cooking dinner, running errands, or simply being there for them, it could be a sign that they’re taking you for granted. Everyone likes to feel appreciated, and a lack of gratitude can make you feel undervalued and unappreciated.

2. They don’t make time for you.

Life gets busy, but making time for your partner is crucial for a healthy relationship. If your partner consistently puts work, hobbies, or other commitments before spending quality time with you, it might be a sign that they’re taking your presence for granted. Remember, relationships require nurturing, and spending time together is essential for maintaining a strong connection.

3. They stop putting in effort.

Remember those early days when your partner went out of their way to impress you and make you feel special? If that effort has dwindled and they seem content with simply going through the motions, it could be a sign that they’ve become complacent. Relationships require ongoing effort from both sides, and a lack of effort can be a major red flag.

4. They don’t listen to you.

Feeling heard and understood is a fundamental human need. If your partner interrupts you, dismisses your concerns, or simply doesn’t pay attention when you’re talking, it can be a sign that they’re not valuing your thoughts and feelings. A lack of active listening can create distance and resentment, undermining the foundation of your relationship.

5. They criticise you more than they compliment you.

A little constructive criticism can be helpful, but if your partner focuses more on your flaws than your strengths, it can be demoralising and damaging to your self-esteem. Everyone needs to feel appreciated and valued, and a partner who constantly criticises you is likely taking you for granted.

6. They forget important dates or events.

Forgetting a birthday or anniversary once might be a simple mistake, but if your partner consistently forgets important dates or events, it can feel like a personal insult. These special occasions are opportunities to celebrate your love and commitment, and forgetting them can make you feel unimportant and unappreciated.

7. They don’t show affection or intimacy.

Physical and emotional intimacy are essential components of a healthy relationship. If your partner has become distant, unaffectionate, or uninterested in intimacy, it could be a sign that they’re taking your love and affection for granted. Everyone needs to feel loved and desired, and a lack of affection can create a sense of loneliness and disconnection.

8. They make decisions without consulting you.

In a healthy partnership, decisions should be made together, especially those that affect both of you. If your partner consistently makes decisions without considering your input or feelings, it can be a sign that they’re not valuing your opinion or respecting your autonomy. This lack of consideration can create resentment and a feeling of powerlessness in the relationship.

9. They don’t include you in their plans.

Whether it’s a weekend getaway with friends or a simple dinner outing, feeling excluded from your partner’s plans can be hurtful and isolating. It sends the message that your presence isn’t valued or considered important. Open communication about social plans and ensuring both partners feel included is crucial for maintaining a healthy and balanced relationship.

10. They put their needs before yours every single time.

Relationships involve a give-and-take dynamic, but if your partner consistently puts their needs above yours, it can create an imbalance of power and resentment. Whether it’s always choosing the film they want to watch or disregarding your feelings in a disagreement, a self-centred approach can leave you feeling neglected and unimportant.

11. They’re not happy for your wins.

Whether it’s a promotion at work, a personal accomplishment, or simply reaching a goal, celebrating your successes together is important for fostering a supportive and encouraging relationship. If your partner doesn’t acknowledge or celebrate your achievements, it can make you feel like they don’t truly care about your happiness or success.

12. They compare you to other people, and not necessarily in a nice way.

Comparing you to other people, whether it’s friends, ex-partners, or even celebrities, is going to make you feel inadequate and unappreciated, no matter how high your self-esteem is generally. Everyone is unique, and your partner should value you for who you are, not who they wish you were. Comparisons can be incredibly hurtful and can erode your self-esteem over time.

13. They don’t apologise or take responsibility for their behaviour.

Everyone makes mistakes, but owning up to them and apologising is important for maintaining healthy relationships. If your partner refuses to say they’re sorry or take responsibility for their actions, it can create resentment and a lack of trust. This behaviour can also make you feel like your feelings and concerns are not valued or respected.

14. You don’t feel like a priority.

Ultimately, if you consistently feel like you’re not a priority in your partner’s life, it’s a strong sign that they’re taking you for granted. This feeling can manifest in many ways, from feeling neglected and unimportant to feeling like your needs and desires are constantly being overlooked. If you’re feeling this way, it’s important to communicate your concerns to your partner and work together to find a solution. Remember, a healthy relationship is built on mutual respect, appreciation, and effort from both sides.