We've all heard the adage that love is a journey and relationships take work. However, at times through our own wants and needs, we may veer off course. When one partner suddenly announces they need time away, it can send feelings of panic throughout your entire being. You may feel like you’re at the brink of a steep cliff, ready to plummet into a deep abyss. But there’s hope. There are ways you can create harmony for yourself, even if you don’t yet have the chance to do it with your partner.
The rollercoaster ride of emotions when a partner suddenly wants ‘space’ can be overwhelming — especially if you didn’t see it coming. One second, it feels like everything is sailing along smoothly, the next you’re left with an unexpected barrage of doubt, anger, and confusion. Maybe you feel like you have no control over the situation or no chance to understand why your beloved needs time apart. It’s understandable that your feelings go up and down during this difficult period. You may question the trajectory of the relationship, your worth, even feel like the break was caused by something you did or didn’t do. It’s imperative in these moments to think rationally so you are able to take proper care of yourself.
Some initial steps to keep in mind as you dive into a chaotic sea of emotions are to remember that you are allowed to feel whatever it is that comes up— joy, hurt, surprise, numbness — and to communicate your feelings in a respectful manner. Taking a deep breath and allowing yourself a few moments to calmly consider the situation will help you remain levelheaded and focus on the positive aspects of the current situation. Whether that means following up with your partner to make sure they’re doing alright or writing out how you feel, expressing yourself can often help adjust your internal balance.
But what do you do when your partner is adamant about requiring space? Is it possible for you to come to some kind of acceptance that allows you to maintain both your sanity and them? The answer is yes. You don’t have to lose yourself or him entirely if your better half needs some space to reflect and regroup. In any relationship, honest communication is key — so reaching out to your partner to ask questions in an open and understanding way is not only highly recommended but encouraged.
When partners need time off, it’s important to accept it without thinking it means the end. While it may seem arduous, it can also pave the way towards resolving conflicts and exploring new perspectives in an effort to deepen the relationship. That being said, always remember to respect your own boundaries. If things become too overwhelming or uncomfortable, take a step back and take care of yourself. Allowing the feeling of wanting to reconnect to arise naturally, instead of pushing yourself to reach out because you think it’s what you’re supposed to do, is more beneficial in the long run.
It’s the mutual understanding between two parties that truly brings people together, creating a lasting bond. While it’s completely valid to feel scared and worried when needing space arises during your relationship, taking the time to assess and prepare your own needs first allows an anchor to be set even in the vastness of an uncertain sea.
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