11 signs your relationship is worth working on

If your relationship has been struggling along, then you've likely experienced that sinking feeling that things might not work out. And hey — sometimes that feeling is 100 percent right. But if you and your SO are meant to be, there will be some pretty obvious signs your relationship is still worth working on.

I'm talking about the positive aspects that keep you and your parter sticking around, despite the bumps in the road. For a comparison, think back to your past relationships that didn't pan out. Can you see the difference? Those old flames were likely rife with unfixable problems — the kind that almost alwayscause a relationship to fail. As Irina Firstein, LCSW, explains in an email to Bustle, "Some ... deal breakers are lack of trust, numerous failed attempts at fixing it in therapy, [and] when the feeling is that there is no life or energy left in [the relationship.]"

When these types of problems abound, parting ways is usually the best option. But if there is still a spark, and love, and friendship, then it is possible to work things out. In fact, you guys should work things out, since no relationship comes without its fair share of problems. Read on for signs that you should do just that.

1. You Still Feel The Feels

It'll be obvious when a relationship is truly meant to be over. It'll just feel done, and watching your partner waltz out the door will be a relief. But if the thought of losing your SO keeps you up at night, then consider it a sign the love is worth salvaging. As Firstein says, "... if you feel you care and still have positive feelings and there is a genuine commitment on both sides, it is a good idea to try to make things better."

2. There's A Lot Invested

Of course you shouldn't stay in a relationship just because the thought of moving out seems annoying. But having a lot invested in each other should make you take pause. "Kids, pets, property… the more stuff you and your partner share, the more it’s worth it to try to salvage your relationship," Andrew Christensen, Ph.D., told Anna Davies on YourTango.com. After all, there's probably a good reason you guys got that involved in the first place.

3. You're Both Willing To Put In The Work

"In order to work on your relationship, there has to be a strong desire to do so and ability to be open to new ideas and new behaviors," Firstein says. Whether that means long chats every night, or seeing a therapist, it's a good sign if you're both game to make an effort.