There are many successful bridge partnerships in writing and playing that one could mention right at the top of your head, and right now.

Some are famous, and others spend their time playing at their local club events – but are still, in the end, just as successful in their play.

But not all partnerships work this way.

For every great or notable bridge partnership out there, there are ones that might still need work (or ones that aren’t working at all).

There are potential danger signs for any and every bridge partnership.

When these danger signs show up, assess your partnership. Speak to your partner, and decide to either (1) fix these issues and how, or (2) move on to another partnership.

Here are 7 danger signs for any bridge partnership.

1. Too frequent disagreements

It’s normal (and even okay) for bridge partnerships to disagree.

When you disagree on bidding or things like transport arrangements just that little too much, it stands on the way of being a good partnership.

Compromise and learn from it, or you might sacrifice your game for it.

2. An uneven power struggle

A power struggle isn’t about the playing ability of either, but I’ve noticed that it’s more about ego than anything else. Where one partner always tries to be better than their equal, you’ve stopped playing the game as a team.

If you’re bumping heads with your partner just too often, consider talking things out.

3. Partnership jealousy

Does your partner allow you to play with others?

While rare, I’ve seen it – and partnership jealousy can be a real killer for bridge partnerships.

If you want to be a better player, the experience of playing with others is what helps you to get there. Jealousy should have no place in a good bridge partnership.

4. A forceful partnership

Does your partner ever feel forceful in their requests? This is a danger sign that might speak to their personality type – and if your bridge partner tries to gain control of other elements of your life, it’s time to cut them out.

Good partnerships and friendships are never forceful.

If they are, then they’re not good.

5. Mismatched partnerships

I don’t mean ability when I say this, but instead the fact that some people just don’t match well with others.

If you can’t stand your bridge partner or share their ideas of plays or conventions, your team is in trouble.

Either compromise, or move on and seek another fitting partnership. It’s harsh, but it’s often true for partners who can’t see eye-to-eye.

6. One cheats, one doesn’t

It seems to me that there are very few cheating teams. Instead, one person cheats – and one person does not. One partner can tarnish the perception of the entire partnership if this is the case.

If you suspect that your bridge partner has ever crossed ethical lines within the game, it’s time for a talk. It might even be time to move on.

7. Too far beyond the call

While many bridge partnerships are married (and I presume, happily), many partnerships meet just for cards. There’s an unwritten rule here that says one should not overstep boundaries with your bridge partner – especially not unwanted declarations of affection. Have either you or your bridge partner stepped over? Move on, or talk about the future of the two of you at the card table.