Realizing that your relationship isn't going as well as it should be can be a scary prospect. It can creep up on your slowly over time and then one day you wake up and realize that things aren't working out. Or, it can seem to come on quickly and blindside you unexpectededly.

Either way, the thought of losing your relationship can be frightening and extremely stressful. The good news is that most relationships can be saved if you know what to do and are willing to put a little bit of effort into them. Here are some tips for how to save a failing relationship that you can apply to start getting things back on track again. 

One of the most important things you can do when you feel that your relationship is slipping away is to talk to your partner about it. Sit down and explain how you are feeling and let them know that you want to work to improve things. You may be surprised to learn that your partner feels the same way you do. Often times couples are able to come up with a plan to work on things together and get their relationship back on track. 

If you talk to your partner about it and they don't feel the same or don't want to work on things you can still make an effort to save your relationship yourself. It will take a little more work and committment on your part if you are going it alone, but it can be done.

In any relationship - and especially in a troubled relationship - over time the fun can disappear. When you first started dating chances are that you and your partner did lots of things together that you both enjoyed. You probably spent a lot of time laughing and having fun.

As time goes on many of us get caught up in the problems of life including money troubles, having kids, difficulties at work and other things that affect our lives. In many cases relationships get put on the back burner so that day to day problems can be dealt with. 

It is important to stop this cycle and to start making your relationship a priority. At least one night a week try setting aside time for you and your partner to be together undisturbed. Plan fun activities that both of you enjoy. Don't let anything interfere with your "date night". Get a baby sitter if you need to, turn off your phones, and just enjoy each other's company again.

Think back to when you started dating and the things you used to do together to get ideas of fun ways you could spend your dates.

Doing nice things for your partner that you know they will appreciate can help them to see you in a different light. Not only that, but the more nice things you do for them the more likely they are to return the favor and do nice things for you.

Sit down and think of ways that you could make your partners life easier. Could you do the dishes if you don't already? Or maybe you could surprise them tickets to a game or show they have really been wanting to see. Would they love a day at a spa without the kids? Or a nice, romantic dinner featuring their favorite food? Use your imagination and come up with some things you know they would love. Then, take action and start doing them.

Sometimes the problems in a relationship are too big for the two of you to handle on your own. If necessary seek out the help of a qualified professional. Going to counseling together can help you work through your problems with someone there to act as moderator. Many people are more comfortable bringing up difficult subjects if there is someone there who can help.

Even if your partner is unwilling to consider counseling you may want to think about going alone. A counselor can help you with the emotions you are feeling and can advise you on how best to proceed to resolve the conflict in your relationship.