Bid Starvation

When someone stops making bids, it's not because they stopped caring. It's because they learned that reaching for you results in nothing. This is called bid starvation, and it's the quiet killer of relationships.

Recovery starts with noticing. Spend one evening tracking every time your partner says something that isn't logistical. Each one is a bid. Respond to it — even briefly. You'll be stunned how quickly the warmth comes back when someone feels seen again.