Sure. But it takes two remember? If it's just one person trying to make it work, it's a crush/fantasy. Some people get into relationships where the partner just can't bear to hurt the other partner and is just going through the motions. That's not working on it.

In my opinion, people should look for people they like/want/respect/lust/love that like/want/respect/lust/love them back right now -- not what's been or could be in the future. Right now. And whose actions speak louder than words. So much easier. So much more reward. So much less pain. Don't waste time trying to change a person's heart. Move on.

You know, relationships will hit lulls and conflicts, etc. But you can tell a "real" relationship because BOTH people will do major things to protect and maintain the relationship even through really tough times. Even if they're both furious with the other partner OR even having doubts. Operative word here is BOTH. Actually, another operative word here is RESPECT. People with "real" relationships, even if they argue constantly with the other partner, BOTH of them RESPECT the integrity of the partner as a true partner in the relationship, an individual and a human being. Then it's worth working on.

It's ALL always easier said than done. Depends upon the circumstances. If one person is in jail for life or lives on the other side of moon, then possibly it isn't worth pursuing. But if both are in love, which is proved by both doing everything to get back together and make it work, then of course it's worth it. But the point is not to fool oneself with thinking that other person is really trying when their not. The real answer here is if two people really are in love and it's a real relationship, there are NO circumstances.