So, you and your partner decided to take a break. Of course, it’s not an easy situation. You might wonder, “Should I text them during this time apart?” This is a common question when couples hit the pause button on their relationship.
Taking a break can mean different things to different people. For some, it’s a chance to step back, take some time to think, and figure out if they want to stay together or break up for good. For others, it’s an opportunity to work on themselves before diving back into the relationship.
You might miss them, want to check in or feel like you need to talk things out. But hold up! Before you hit that send button, consider a few essential things.
This article will explore why you should or shouldn’t reach for your phone and text your partner when taking a break.
The article will also explore what you can do during this time apart to make the most of it, whether you want to get back together or move on. So, let’s get started!
Reasons You Should Text Your Partner When You’re On a Break
1. The agreed-upon break period has ended
You agreed on the break terms, so texting them to check in and see where they stand is fine. Remember that your partner may need more time, even though it’s hard to wait.
If they’re not ready to communicate with your partner, respect their wishes and give them the space they need.
2. Your partner is going through a difficult time
If you know your partner is dealing with a tough situation, like a family emergency or personal crisis, it’s okay to text them even though you’re on pause. This shows you still care about their well-being, even though you take time apart.
Just be sure to keep the focus on their situation and not use it as an opportunity to discuss your relationship issues. Your partner deserves to be treated with compassion and understanding during this challenging time.
3. You’ve realized you want to continue the relationship
Sometimes, taking a step back can clarify what you want. Be honest and open about your feelings and desire to work through any issues together.
However, be prepared for the possibility that they may not feel the same way. If they need more time or want to end the relationship, respect their decision.
4. They texted you first
You might be tempted to return the text immediately, especially if you’ve been hoping to hear from them.
However, take a moment to consider why they might be reaching out. Is it because they genuinely miss you and want to express their feelings, or could there be another reason?
If you choose to respond, remember that you’re still on a break. Keep the communication focused on the specific reason they reached out during a relationship break.
5. It’s a special day (birthday, anniversary, etc.)
If it’s a significant milestone, like a birthday or anniversary, a short and sweet text telling them you’re thinking of them might be appropriate.
However, if the break was initiated because you need to focus on personal growth, it might be best to hold off on reaching out. Every relationship is different, so trust your instincts and do what suits your situation.
6. You’ve had time to work on yourself
Taking a break can be an opportunity to focus on self-improvement and personal growth. If you feel like you’ve made significant strides in areas causing issues in your relationship, it might be worth reaching out to your partner to let them know.
However, it’s essential to approach the conversation with care and not expect immediate reconciliation. Your partner may need more time to work on themselves or have realized that the relationship isn’t what they want anymore.
7. You genuinely miss them and want to express your feelings
It is crucial to respect their boundaries and be prepared for the possibility that they may not feel the same way.
If they need more time or have decided to break up, gracefully accepting their decision is essential. Remember, even if you genuinely miss them, you must respect their decision not to continue the relationship.
Breaking up over text isn’t ideal, but if that’s what your partner chooses, it’s important to handle it with maturity and grace.
Reasons You Shouldn’t Text Your Partner When You’re On a Break
1. The agreed-upon break period hasn’t ended yet
If you’re struggling with the lack of contact, reaching out before the agreed-upon end date can make it seem like you don’t respect your partner’s needs.
They may have asked for a break because they need to take some time to figure things out, and if you push too hard, it could push her further away. When the agreed-upon time is up, you can reach out and see where you both stand.
2. You’re only missing their company, not them as a person
If you want to reach out just because you’re lonely or bored, it’s probably not a good idea. If you’re only missing their company, it’s not fair to drag them back into a relationship that isn’t working.
3. You’re just bored and looking for entertainment
You both agreed to take a break for a reason, and using the time to seek entertainment or attention from your partner defeats the purpose.
Pick a new hobby, spend time with friends and family, or do something you’ve always wanted to try. Don’t waste it by trying to use your partner to cure boredom.
4. You don’t want to be single, but the relationship isn’t working
If you’ve realized the relationship isn’t working, reaching out to your partner won’t solve the underlying issues. Instead, use this time away to focus on your personal growth and happiness.
5. Your partner has explicitly asked for no contact
If your partner has clearly expressed that they need space and have requested no contact during the break, respecting their wishes is crucial. Ignoring their boundaries and reaching out can damage the relationship further and make it less likely that you’ll be able to reconcile.
Your partner may have asked to go without contact because they need time to process their emotions and figure out what they want.
Pressuring them to talk before they’re ready can make them feel suffocated and push them further away. If you struggle with communication, lean on friends and family for support. Trust that they’ll contact you when they’re ready to talk.
What to Do During the Break to Make the Most of It
Analyze your relationship with your partner
Use this time to think about what has been working well and what hasn’t. Consider how you both have grown and changed since the beginning of the relationship and whether your values and goals are still aligned.
Don’t be afraid to dig deep and be honest about whether this relationship fulfills your needs.
Engage in self-reflection to gain clarity about your wants and needs
Consider what makes you happy and fulfilled and whether your current relationship aligns with those needs. Remember, it’s okay if your wants and needs have changed over time.
The goal is to be honest with yourself so that you can make informed decisions about your relationship moving forward.
Don’t be afraid to prioritize your happiness and well-being, even if it means making difficult decisions about your relationship.
Respect the boundaries you both decided upon during the break
This might include agreeing on the length of the break, whether you’ll have any contact during this time, and what the purpose of the break is (e.g., to reflect on the relationship, to work on personal growth, etc.).
Once these boundaries are set, you both must respect them fully. This means you may not contact your partner except as expressly permitted and may not push for more contact or information than agreed upon.
Violating the boundaries you’ve set can undermine trust and make it harder to move forward, whether that’s in the current relationship or another relationship down the line.
Learn something new to keep yourself engaged and growing
Take this time to explore new hobbies, develop new skills, or explore interesting subjects. Learning something new can help keep your mind engaged and give you a sense of accomplishment during a challenging time.
Whether taking an online course, picking up a new sport or creative outlet, or reading books on a passionate topic, investing in yourself can be incredibly rewarding.
Embrace this chance to grow and evolve, both for your own sake and for the sake of any future relationships.
Take care of yourself emotionally and physically
Going through a break can be emotionally and physically draining, so it’s essential to prioritize self-care during this time.
Ensure you get enough sleep, eat well, and exercise regularly. Engage in activities that bring you joy and help you relax, whether spending time in nature, practicing meditation or yoga, or indulging in a favorite hobby.
Surround yourself with supportive friends and family members who can offer a listening ear and a shoulder to lean on.
Always remember that caring for yourself isn’t selfish – it’s necessary for your overall well-being and resilience.
By tending to your own needs, you’ll be better equipped to handle the challenges of the break and emerge stronger and more self-aware on the other side.
Seek help if you’re struggling and need support
If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Talk to a trusted friend or family member about what you’re going through, or consider seeking the guidance of a therapist or counselor.
A mental health professional can provide tools and strategies for managing emotions, processing experiences, and working towards personal growth.
Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. By seeking support when needed, you’re actively participating in your healing and well-being.
Whether you ultimately decide to rekindle your relationship or move on, prioritizing your mental health will serve you well in the long run.
Final Thoughts
Deciding whether to text your partner during a break would depend on your unique situation and the boundaries you’ve set.
While the old saying “absence makes the heart grow fonder” may ring true, it’s crucial to consider the reasons behind the break and respect the need for space.
Engaging in contact during a relationship break can be tempting, but it’s essential to know how you want to handle communication beforehand.
If you’re unsure how to approach a break, seeking relationship advice from a trusted source can provide clarity.
