But theres one thing they have in common: they happen and develop in stages. A healthy relationship takes time and effort to grow. Some people stay in the same stage for longer than others, while others move too fast in their relationship. Theres no such thing as a normal relationship timeline.

What is the timeline of a relationship?

The five stages of a relationship are the Merge, Doubt and Denial, Disillusionment, the Decision, and Wholehearted Love. Every single relationship moves through these five stages—though not only once.

What time frame is considered a new relationship?

But three months is considered to be the average length of the first stage of a relationship. According to psychotherapist and relationship coach, Toni Coleman, LCSW, you should be ideally making that transition from casually dating to exclusive around that time.