1. You limit their capabilities

Instead of believing in their potential, you constantly talk about the risks, flaws, or what could go wrong. 

Over time, this makes them feel incapable in your eyes. Nobody wants to share plans with someone who only clips their wings instead of encouraging them to fly.

2. You don’t provide supportive energy
Every time they share an idea, you drag it down with negativity. 
Instead of saying, “How can we make this work?” 

you say, “This won’t work. Try something lesser.” 

3. You make it difficult for them to ask for help

If every request for assistance is met with judgment, mockery, or long lectures, they will stop asking altogether. 
No one enjoys feeling belittled for being vulnerable. In the end, they may choose to handle their burdens alone rather than risk your reaction.

4. They can already predict your response

When your partner knows that every conversation will end with you dismissing, criticizing, or shutting them down, they won’t bother anymore.

Predictability in love is good but when it’s predictably negative, it kills openness.

5. You always find a way to bring your ex into the conversation.

Nothing damages trust faster than constant comparison. The moment you say, “My ex would have done it this way,” you’re not only disrespecting your partner, you’re telling them they’ll never measure up. 

Why would they share something personal when they feel like they’re in competition with a ghost from the past?

If your partner has stopped including you in their decisions, don’t just assume they’re being secretive.