From my marriage to yours—real talk about love, growth, and why Stage 3 is where the work begins.
I used to think that if you found the “right person,” love would just flow.
Now, seven years into my relationship, I know that’s just not true.
This week on the podcast, let’s talk about what many call “the 7-Year Itch”—that uncomfortable phase where things don’t feel so romantic anymore. Even me and my husband, we’re two years into our marriage and seven years into our relationship, and yes... we’ve hit a rough patch.
But here’s what I’ve learned:
Every couple goes through this.
Most people don’t talk about it.
And most couples quit at Stage 3.
The 5 Stages of Love
I break down what I’ve learned from my marriage coach and from living it myself:
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Attraction – That initial spark, chemistry, and excitement.
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Romance – The honeymoon phase, full of adoration and fun.
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Disillusionment (aka Reality) – The masks come off. You see flaws. Conflict begins.
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Attachment – If you push through, deeper bonding starts to form.
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Stability – Peace. Trust. Real understanding.
If you’re in a rough season, don’t quit yet.
If you're single and dating, ask the hard questions now.
If you’ve been married before and feel embarrassed to try again—don’t be. Just learn and do better.
This podcast episode is a love letter to anyone who’s struggling, growing, or just wants something real.
Let’s normalize the hard parts of love. Let’s talk about the stuff under the rug. And let’s get the skills we need before things blow up.
🎧 Watch now: The 5 Stages of Love & Where People Quit – Episode 116
Link here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AfBzZLZTSsU.
#MarriageMatters #RelationshipsThatLast #DatingWithKaty #EmotionalGrowth #LoveSkills #RealTalk #7yearItch #5StagesOfLove