"I just didn't see it coming."

Since communication breakdown is often a glaring sign on the road to Splitsville, it isn't surprising that one partner in a relationship is often caught off guard by the dreaded delivery of divorce papers. Below are seven warning signs of a marriage going sour.

1. The Stranger Beside You

Do you and your partner spend hours together under the same roof, at social engagements or performing routine errands, yet rarely engage in meaningful conversation? Existing in silence is a primary symptom of major marital problems.

2. Under a Microscope?

Do you feel like your every action is being watched and criticized by your partner? Can you do no right in their eyes? Too often partners will funnel larger relationship issues into negative criticism of day-to-day tasks.

3. Heard It Through the Grapevine

Has your major source of information about your partner - their career, problems and personal achievements - become mutual friends and overheard phone conversations? When you start becoming "the last to know," communication needs to happen.

4. What's That Smell?

Over time, your comfort level will inevitably end that desire to look "perfect" for every encounter with your partner. However, a drastic decline in personal appearance and hygiene by your spouse could be a sign of surrender.

5. Infomercials and Baywatch Reruns

If the buzz of your household's television becomes constant, there may be a problem. It is common for individuals to overwhelm themselves with distractions (television, books, model-building in the basement) to avoid dealing with a troubled marriage.

6. Drama Without Purpose?

Do you feel like a Broadway actor giving the same performance eight times a week? If your arguments become routine with all the same issues and no resolution, then your marriage is either standing still or dying fast. You may need the assistance of a professional counselor to help direct these conversations.

7. 1-900-HELP-ME

Is the physical intimacy in your relationship so far gone that calling up a party line seems like it would be worth $20 a minute? A significant decline in physical affection is one of the most recognized symptoms of a flailing relationship.

If the scenarios in this article seem all too familiar, there are several things to keep in mind when dealing with these issues and making decisions about marriage or divorce:

• Marriages rarely fix themselves. Don't walk on eggshells, afraid to bring up sensitive issues. If your relationship is on the rocks and you aren't moving toward either a solution or dissolution, then you aren't actively managing the process and need to take a more proactive role.
• Don't be afraid to rely on professionals. Marriage counselors, couples retreats and communication workshops are great first steps to reviving a relationship and building a stronger, more balanced partnership.
• If divorce seems inevitable, start preparing. If your instinct says your relationship won't last, be proactive: have an initial consultation with a lawyer and make copies of important financial and legal documents.

Tags: Divorce, Relationship Conflicts

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About the Author

The Equality in Marriage Institute was founded in 1998 by Lorna Wendt after her public divorce and fight for equality put her in the national spotlight. Through thousands of phone calls and letters, Lorna found that, like her, many individuals moved under the assumption that theirs was a fair, balanced partnership. Dedicated to helping other couples avoid her pitfalls, Lorna started the Institute to provide support, information and resources, for women and men in all stages of marriage. www.equalityinmarriage.org More