What should you do when your partner asks for a break?
Taking a break from a relationship could be the beginning of a heart break.
Hearing the words "Let’s take a break" come out of your romantic partner’s mouth can be downright frightening.
Like, what does it even mean to take a break anyway? Does this mean you’re free to date other people? Are you now single... or still in a relationship?
When I was dating in campus, my boyfriend at the time asked that we take a break.
I thought he needed to re-evaluate his life and become a better boyfriend and so my naïve self, told him to take as much time as possible.
He went ahead to date another lady taking some business course.
With my not-so-many relationships and breaks in between I can easily proclaim to be a self-made relationship advisor. I have learned so many lessons, so relax adjust your phone's brightness, and get some of the wisdom.
First, your partner wanting a break could mean they have met someone else, and need to think if the new human is worth losing you for.
It could also mean you have done something that bothered them and they just don't want to have to deal with you for a while.
Trust me, It's usually, not a good sign. Sometimes, it's the first step, in breaking up with someone. Letting them down, slowly and not abruptly. Avoiding drama.
Secondly, when your partner has decided to go on a ‘break’, they are communicating to you that they want some space from you, so give them some space.
It is an instinct in these situations for people to try to tighten their grip on the relationship, but that is the opposite of what you should do.
So if you are in such a situation my advice is this, go back to your partner with your chest high, full of confidence, and sure of yourself.
Tell them that you understand the need to have some space, and tell them that you are giving them all the space they desire. This is a break-up. Be clear, respectful, calm and mature.
At this point, allow yourself to grieve the end of the relationship.
Start to learn how to live by yourself again. Go out with some friends, make new friends, and find a healthy way to spend the free time you now have.
I wish you the best of luck in your emotional journey forward.