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3 essential steps when taking a break in your relationship

A break can provide the necessary time and space to evaluate the relationship. If you are considering taking a break then check out the 3 essential steps by expert.

Published on: Sep 14, 2022 03:26 PM IST
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"Taking a break" is a phrase used to express what is normally intended to be a brief separation in relationships. A break may seem like a fantastic way to put your relationship on hold while you figure out what happens next when it seems like it's going nowhere or you are unsure of how to proceed. However, taking a break from your relationship need not always result in a breakup. Even while you don't always need a break to get through difficulties, you could decide to take one if it seems like the best course for you and your relationship. Every relationship is unique and will have difficult phases from time to time. Taking a break can give you time and space to think about your relationship and how you want to take it forward. (Also read: Things no one tells you about a break up)

Things no one tells you about a break up (Pexels)
Things no one tells you about a break up (Pexels)

Certified Relationship Coach, Alexandra, suggested three essential steps when taking a break in your relationship in her recent Instagram post.

1. Define what a break means to each of you

If you remember the episode in Friends where Ross and Rachel were on a break, it's clear that they each had very different interpretations of "taking a break" and that's one of the reasons the "break" wasn't beneficial for them. What you each mean by "a break" needs to be discussed because it determines your expectations so here are some examples of what you can explore

• Does the break mean "time apart" or an actual break-up?

• Will you stay in touch during the break? If yes, how often?

2. Clarify your intentions for the break

Clarifying your intentions will give you both a sense of direction so that you can make the most out of it. This is about your intentions and what you're going to use the break for. Here's what that can look like:

• "I feel like I've been very active in your life and have forgotten myself lately so I need some space to rediscover myself."

• "Because we're not on the same page about important topics, I'll take this time to tune into what I want & what I'm willing (or not) to accept moving forward."

• "I've noticed that even if I love you, my doubts, intrusive thoughts, anxiety, and triggers have been leaking into our relationship and I want to learn how to manage this without hurting you so that I can come back stronger after our break."

3. Agree on the timeline of your break

Without a timeline, it can feel like you're going through a tunnel with no light at the end of it. That uncertainty can lead to an accumulation of doubts, resentment, and frustration towards the other while you're on the break. Determine when you'll reconnect so that you can decide where you want things to go.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Akanksha Agnihotri

Akanksha Agnihotri is a lifestyle journalist with over 3 years of experience. She is a psychology graduate and holds a postgraduate diploma in Radio and Television Journalism from the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Delhi, where she graduated as a gold medalist. Originally from Bhopal, the beautiful capital of Madhya Pradesh, she draws inspiration from the city’s rich cultural heritage and layered storytelling traditions that subtly shape her narrative voice. She writes extensively about fashion, beauty, health, relationships, culture, and food, exploring everything from trending styles and runway moments to wellness routines and mindful living. Passionate about meaningful and candid conversations, she enjoys interviewing celebrities, doctors, designers, and film personalities, diving into discussions on fitness, beauty, mental health, and everything fun in between. With a keen eye for trends and a thoughtful understanding of human behaviour, she brings depth, sensitivity, and authenticity to her stories, ensuring they resonate with a wide and diverse audience. When she’s not working, you’ll usually find her lost in a book, planning her next mountain trek, or mapping out spontaneous travel escapes. She loves discovering new authors, revisiting old favourites, and spending quiet afternoons in museums soaking in art, history, and culture. An avid bird-watching enthusiast, she finds joy in early morning walks, spotting rare birds, and reconnecting with nature. Whether sipping coffee while journaling her thoughts or exploring hidden corners of a new city, she constantly seeks inspiration in everyday moments that often turn into compelling story ideas.

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Catch your daily dose of Fashion, Taylor Swift, Health, Festivals, Travel, Relationship, Recipe and all the other Latest Lifestyle News on Hindustan Times Website and APPs.
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