Cupid's Light

    Get Cupid's Arrow

    Subscribe to receive the latest dating and relationship advice, health and wellness tips, product recommendations, and more.

    Popular Now

    What Is a Karmic Relationship and Are You in One?

    How To Make Yourself Cum Faster: 12 Tips and Techniques

    How To Give Your Partner the Best Blowjob Ever

    How To Use Nipple Clamps for Maximum Pleasure

    Latest Quizzes

    Are You Emotionally Available?

    Are You and Your Partner Emotionally Compatible?

    Are You Losing Interest In Your Partner?

    Facebook Twitter Instagram
    Cupid's LightCupid's Light
    • Dating
      1. Dating
      2. Online Dating
      3. Date Night
      4. Sexting
      5. Quizzes
      6. View All

      What Is a Karmic Relationship and Are You in One?

      Signs That You Are in a Clingy Relationship and What To Do About It

      The Top Things To Talk About With Your Boyfriend | From a Relationship Expert

      If A Man Really Loves You He Will Do These Top Things

      Top Reasons Why Ghosters Always Come Back to You

      Best Tinder Bios For Guys

      How To Be the Sexy MILF You’re Meant To Be

      Our Favorite Dirty Pick Up Lines To Say to a Guy

      11 Second Date Ideas for a Strong Relationship

      How Small Is Too Small for a Woman?

      How To Flirt Over Text With a Girl

      How to Effortlessly Plan the Most Romantic Date Night

      What To Know Before Sexting Pics

      Send These 9 Texts To Get Him Chasing You

      How to Start Sexting: 21 Unspoken Rules

      Are You Emotionally Available?

      Are You and Your Partner Emotionally Compatible?

      Are You Losing Interest In Your Partner?

      Which TV Show Is Most Relatable To Your Friend Group?

      What Is a Karmic Relationship and Are You in One?

      Signs That You Are in a Clingy Relationship and What To Do About It

      The Top Things To Talk About With Your Boyfriend | From a Relationship Expert

      If A Man Really Loves You He Will Do These Top Things

    • Sex & Passion
      1. Positions
      2. Passion
      3. Products
      4. View All

      How To Give Her an Orgasm and Make Her Cum

      How To Give Your Man a Fast Blowjob

      Top Lesbian Sex Positions Explained

      7 Kama Sutra Positions You Should Try

      10 Best Cuddle Positions for Any Relationship

      Sexual Attraction in a Relationship Can Help Increase Serotonin

      Physical Characteristics Aren’t The Only Things That Matter When It Comes To Sexual Attraction

      19 Reasons Why Chubby Girls Make the Best Lovers

      How To Use Nipple Clamps for Maximum Pleasure

      How To Pick the Right High-Waisted Bikini for You

      How to Use a Dildo for Maximum Pleasure 

      Clit Sucker To Make Her Climax

      How To Use Nipple Clamps for Maximum Pleasure

      How To Pick the Right High-Waisted Bikini for You

      How To Give Her an Orgasm and Make Her Cum

      How to Use a Dildo for Maximum Pleasure 

    • Marriage
      1. Date Night & Romance
      2. Intimacy & Sex
      3. Keep It Interesting
      4. Affairs & Divorce
      5. View All

      11 Second Date Ideas for a Strong Relationship

      How Small Is Too Small for a Woman?

      5 Signs He is Making Love to You

      How To Be Charming on a First Date

      10 Best Cuddle Positions for Any Relationship

      Why Kinky Porn Isn’t Always Bad for Relationships

      How To Give Your Man a Fast Blowjob

      Top Lesbian Sex Positions Explained

      How to Choose A Gift For Your Significant Other: 12 Gift Ideas

      Testicuzzi: You’ll Love Yourself for It

      From Friends To Lovers: How To Get Out Of The Friend Zone

      44 Interesting Questions To Ask a Guy You’re Crushing On

      Is Your Wife Cheating? 7 Signs You Should Know

      Extramarital Affairs: Who Cheats More?! Men or Women

      Dating After Divorce: The Qualities of a Person That Matter Most

      How To Be Happy Again After a Long Relationship Ends

      10 Best Cuddle Positions for Any Relationship

      Why Kinky Porn Isn’t Always Bad for Relationships

      How To Give Your Man a Fast Blowjob

      How to Choose A Gift For Your Significant Other: 12 Gift Ideas

    • Wellness
      1. Fitness
      2. Nutrition
      3. Mental Health
      4. Spirituality
      5. Sexual Health
      6. Quizzes
      7. View All

      Sexercise: How To Do It and Is It Good for Your Health?

      How To Look Your Best for Your Sexy Bikini

      Partners Who Train Together, Thrive Together: Home Workout for Couples

      The Happy Baby Yoga Position Explained

      21 Best Healthy Snacks to Buy for Couples

      How To Start Living for Yourself and Not Others

      8 Reasons To Stop Asking Yourself: Am I Ugly?

      Why You Should Start Living for Yourself

      How To Get Out of Your Head

      He Left You, Now It’s Time To Do Some Soul Searching

      11 Keys to Spiritual Growth

      Astrological Element Compatibility Quiz

      What Are the Main Types of Meditation?

      How To Be Happy Again and Get Your Mojo Back

      Why It’s Okay for Your Man To Jerk Off

      Are You Losing Interest In Your Partner?

      Are They My Soulmate?

      The DIY Self-Care Trend That You Shouldn’t Overlook!

      Which Attachment Style Is Most Likely Yours?

      How To Start Living for Yourself and Not Others

      8 Reasons To Stop Asking Yourself: Am I Ugly?

      Why You Should Start Living for Yourself

      How To Get Out of Your Head

    • Quizzes

      Are You Emotionally Available?

      Are You and Your Partner Emotionally Compatible?

      Are You Losing Interest In Your Partner?

      Are You Dating a Narcissist?

      Are They Into You?

    • Hot Products
      1. Products for Her
      2. Sexual Products for Her
      3. Products for Him
      4. View All

      Clit Sucker To Make Her Climax

      Vibrating Panties: The Gift for Her That’s Really for You

      Level-Up Your Skills With Sex Furniture

      Our Favorite Vibrating Wand Collection

      Clit Sucker To Make Her Climax

      Anal Beads For Her Pleasure

      Vibrating Panties: The Gift for Her That’s Really for You

      Is It Time for a Sex Swing? Here Are the Facts

      Testicuzzi: You’ll Love Yourself for It

      Level-Up Your Skills With Sex Furniture

      Quickly Satisfy Your Needs with a Pocket Pussy

      9.0

      Together – Couple Conversation Card Games to Improve Communication

      How To Pick the Right High-Waisted Bikini for You

      How to Choose A Gift For Your Significant Other: 12 Gift Ideas

      Clit Sucker To Make Her Climax

      Vibrating Panties: The Gift for Her That’s Really for You

    • Our Picks
    Cupid's Light
    African American Woman Removing her Wedding Ring, While Husband Sits in Despair in the Background
    Relationships

    How To Tell if Someone Is Taking a Break in a Relationship

    Cupid's Light StaffBy Cupid's Light Staff13 Mins Read
    Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email

    The words, “We were on a break,” echo in popular culture decades after the iconic Ross and Rachel fight in Friends. But what exactly do they mean? How can one partner be taking a break in a relationship without the other partner knowing? And most importantly, how can you come back from something like that?

    Real life isn’t a television show. Relationships take hard work and commitment to make them work, but sometimes you need a little bit of time apart to reassess if your relationship is what you want. There can be any number of reasons you may consider taking a break in a relationship.

    The critical thing to remember is that taking a break in a relationship doesn’t always mean it’s a precursor to a breakup. Many relationships have hit the play button after a pause to come back together, reinvigorated in passion for each other and a commitment to a stronger future. Let’s explore some of the reasons you or your partner may consider taking a break in a relationship and how to make the most of your break while setting clear expectations for what it means to you.

    If you take a break in the right way, you’ll never be surprised by your partner’s actions. You will have outlined boundaries from the start, so there will be no Ross and Rachel-like drama once your break is over. Instead, you’ll be left with a clear path ahead, whether moving forward together or apart.

    How to Tell If Someone is Taking a Break in a Relationship?

    If you’re taking a break in a relationship, you’re taking a temporary step away from a romantic relationship. The keyword here is temporary. It is a temporary break. You and your partner fully intend to come back together to assess if the time apart helped strengthen your relationship or if you now realize it’s best to part ways for good.

    Breaks aren’t always the kiss of death for relationships. They can help you realize that you want to be with your partner. If you suspect your partner is pulling away and considering taking a break in a relationship, it’s best to discuss it with them directly. You can set boundaries for the break. Once apart, take time to understand the reasons that led to this situation and take steps to address any issues that are in your control. You must take responsibilities for your actions that may have led to taking a break in a relationship.

    Man With Inquisitive Look on His Face

    Suppose you’re the one considering taking a break in a relationship. To start, set clear boundaries with your partner. You may want to spend time physically apart, which could be challenging if you live together. You could also limit your communication, see other people, or seek help from a relationship expert or therapist. Taking a break in a relationship can give you the perspective you need to maintain a healthy relationship or the distance to realize you are in an unhealthy relationship.

    It’s up to you and your partner to work through any issues during the break lest they bubble up to cause trouble later. Taking a break in a relationship won’t fix any pre-existing problems. Everything will still be there once you get back together, so you must work on them if you have any hope of a future together.

    Reasons for Taking a Break in a Relationship

    There are many reasons you could be considering taking a break in a relationship. Maybe you and your partner got too serious too fast, and you’re worried the blush of first love blinded you. Perhaps there are trust issues and fundamental problems that you need some perspective to work through. You could be under a lot of stress, and your relationship is the only aspect of your life that you feel like you can control.

    Your reasons for taking a break in a relationship are yours, but here are 6 of the most common indicators. If you or your partner are dealing with any of these, it may be a hint that taking a break in a relationship is in your future. The good news is that you can work through most of these with time, patience, and the help of a professional relationship coach.

    Infidelity

    Infidelity is one of the biggest causes of taking a break in a relationship. You or your partner has cheated on the other person. It doesn’t matter if it is a one-night stand, a long-term affair, or an emotional relationship. Something happened that has broken the trust in your relationship, and time apart is the best way to understand if you can move forward.

    If you’re married, taking a break in a relationship would be called a separation. It’s a formal period apart to see if you want to sever your ties with your spouse. You don’t have to go through the same formal steps to petition for separation in a relationship, but that doesn’t mean it’s not as serious.

    Woman Discovering a Phone Number with a Kiss in Her Husband's Laundry

    If infidelity is the reason for taking a break in a relationship, do not act out to even the score with your partner. It will not make you feel better. Take the time apart to heal and consider if you can trust your partner again. It’s okay if the answer is no. No one said you couldn’t break up after a temporary break if that’s what’s right for you.

    Life Change

    If you’re facing a huge change in your life, you may consider taking a break in a relationship. This could be a new career move taking more of your time and attention than a previous role, or it could be a cross-country move that you’ve uprooted your entire life to make. Whatever the case, you’re feeling unstable and need time for your surroundings to settle down. Your relationship could be adding unwanted stress to the situation, so you may want to pause until you feel more prepared for a commitment.

    Life changes don’t always have to be positive either. Perhaps you lost your job, or someone close to you passed away. If you’re considering taking a break in a relationship, know that your reasons, whatever they may be, are valid. You are allowed to feel your feelings and process them in ways that work for you.

    If you have a pattern of pushing people away when times get tough, consider seeking professional help. A therapist can help you work through the emotional trauma that causes these self-destructive behaviors.

    Doubts

    Perhaps you’re having doubts about your relationship, but you’re unsure if you want to break up. Doubts are completely normal parts of the human condition. After all, settling down with one partner for the rest of your life is a huge decision. Don’t take it lightly.

    If you’re taking a break in a relationship based on doubts, consider the root cause of your doubts. Are they based on fundamental issues neither are willing to compromise on, no matter how many times you’ve discussed them? For example, if you want children but your partner doesn’t, that is a serious consideration that could impact your future. Or are your doubts based on panic? Are you acting out because you’re scared?

    Woman Getting Proposed to With a Doubtful Look on Her Face

    Avoid engaging in self-sabotaging behaviors. They will reinforce the doubts as truths when all they are in reality is a cycle of self-harming behaviors. If you don’t think you’re good enough and then engage in behaviors that undermine your self-worth, you perpetuate the cycle.

    Rushed Into It

    Love can happen fast, so if you feel like you’ve rushed into a relationship, take the time to step back and re-evaluate your relationship. Some people believe in love at first sight. They’re planning the wedding after the first date, mapping out their happily ever after before the check comes. That can be stressful to others who are less sure about their future.

    If you feel rushed into a commitment, it’s okay to pause. The rush of emotions can blind you to red flags, so taking a break in a relationship can help you identify if you’re overlooking problems in favor of being head over heels in love.

    Commitment-phobic

    Perhaps the opposite is true. Maybe you’re commitment-phobic, and you lack the maturity for a serious relationship. Instead, you seek surface-level relationships that never get deeper than basic information. You never let people in, and because of it, you’re more likely to consider taking a break in a relationship as a stopgap between a full-on break up because you’re not ready for a serious relationship.

    If this is the case, taking a break in a relationship will not fix what’s broken. It will not stop you from flitting from relationship to relationship when the times get tough. If you suspect you may be afraid of commitment, it may be time to seek therapy.

    Toxic Relationships

    If you suspect you’re in a toxic relationship, you may want to consider taking a break. The distance can help you see if you’re in a bad relationship or facing physical or emotional abuse. An unhealthy relationship will make you feel less than. You will doubt your self-worth, relying on your partner to be your everything. This codependent relationship places your value squarely on your partner’s shoulder. Alone, you are not worthy of love, attention, or care. You could also bring the worst out in each other, and while it may be hard to quit that partner, you must do so for your well-being.

    Upset Woman Sitting on The Bed with Man Shadow in The Background

    Lean on your support system when taking a break in a relationship, even if your partner has tried to isolate you from them. They will be happy to help you exit an unsafe and harmful situation.

    What to Do if You are Taking a Break in a Relationship?

    Now that you’ve considered some of the reasons you may be taking a break in a relationship, here are some tips to make the most of it. The best advice is to make your expectations clear from the start, better yourself during the break, and come together to discuss your future.

    Understand the Root Cause

    Before you take any action, think about why you are taking a break in a relationship. Is your relationship too hard? Do you suspect you may be in a toxic relationship and need distance to understand if it’s salvageable? Maybe you’re just not ready to be in such a serious relationship. Identify the driving force for your uncertainty and if taking a break in a relationship can help you gain the clarity you’re looking to obtain.

    Don’t panic and make decisions in haste. Take the time to identify if taking a break in a relationship is right for you or if you should just break up. The last thing you want to do is use the break to delay the inevitable if you’ve already made up your mind.

    Talk With Your Partner

    Share how you’re feeling with your partner. In-person discussions can help you read their body language, tone, and other social cues you’d miss over text or the phone. If that’s not the case, a phone conversation will work in a pinch. It will be difficult, but share your doubts with your partner. Be honest with how you’re feeling and what you hope to accomplish by taking a break in a relationship.

    If you decide you’re taking a break in a relationship, be clear about your expectations. Set clear boundaries that you agree on, no matter how difficult this may be. Will you see other people during the break? Does that include dating, or can the partners engage in sexual activities? Do you want to limit communication?

    Couple Speaking in the Bed

    Another thing to consider is how long your break will be. Time limits are tricky. It shouldn’t be too long that you readjust to being single, but long enough to get distance from your relationship to drive clarity. Some experts suggest three weeks as a good place to start, as it gives you the time you need to process what’s happening, make a plan for what you want to do, and take steps to see your plan through. If it doesn’t feel right, you can always readjust as long as you stay in open communication with your partner.

    Reconnect with Yourself

    Now that you know what taking a break in a relationship will look like, it’s time to focus on yourself. Now is the time to put your needs first. Evaluate if anything was missing in your relationship that you want to make a priority during the break. Perhaps you felt like you compromised so much that you lost sight of who you are. During the break, be unapologetically you. Eat the second piece of cake. Don’t apologize for going for what you want. Learn to be comfortable in your own company.

    As you reflect, reconnect with your wants, needs, and desires. Are there things you want to make a priority moving forward? Relationships are equal partnerships, so now is the time to think about what you want and go for it.

    Check-In With Your Partner

    This one can be tricky, but check in with your partner to the extent that your boundaries allow. If you’ve cut off all communication, then ignore this step, but if you’re keeping dialogue open, be vulnerable with your partner. Ask them how they’re feeling. Discuss if something doesn’t feel right or if the break is too hard. Be honest with them when they ask your questions.

    Distant Couple in Bed

    Taking a break in a relationship doesn’t mean that you magically stop caring for them. Instead, you’re sorting through complicated feelings. The best person who can help you do that is sometimes your partner, but just stick to the agreed-upon boundaries.

    Reconvene After Taking a Break in a Relationship

    After taking a break in a relationship, you have to come back together to discuss your relationship’s future. Be honest with each other and don’t hide anything that happened during the break. Have difficult conversations about where you see the relationship going, and if you don’t feel comfortable doing it on your own, consider going to couples counseling.

    A relationship expert can help you set ground rules for moving forward. Couples therapy is a great way to discuss what may be troubling you with a fair and impartial judge. It’s a safe space where nothing is off the table, and a couples therapist can help guide you through the healing process.

    Should I Be Taking a Break in a Relationship?

    No one can tell you if you should be taking a break in your relationship or simply breaking up. If your partner initiates the break, listen to their concerns and worth with them if you want to save a failing relationship. Breaks can be a last-ditch effort to save a romantic relationship, but that doesn’t mean it won’t work.

    If you’re considering taking a break in a relationship, be honest with yourself and your partner. Dig deep into your intentions and do some soul searching. With hard work, you can salvage your relationship and come out stronger after a break – just like Ross and Rachel, hopefully after fewer seasons of turmoil.

    Cupid's Light Staff
    • Website

    Cupid's Light Staff is a group of writers focused on empowering you with actionable relationship and wellness advice, providing you with engaging activity ideas, and bringing you the latest must-have relationship products.

    MORE LIKE THIS

    What Is a Karmic Relationship and Are You in One?

    12 Mins ReadBy Cupid's Light Team

    Signs That You Are in a Clingy Relationship and What To Do About It

    13 Mins ReadBy Cupid's Light Staff

    The Top Things To Talk About With Your Boyfriend | From a Relationship Expert

    12 Mins ReadBy Cupid's Light Team

    If A Man Really Loves You He Will Do These Top Things

    12 Mins ReadBy Cupid's Light Staff

    Comments are closed.

    Get Cupid's Arrow

    Subscribe to receive the latest dating and relationship advice, health and wellness tips, product recommendations, and more.

    Top Reviews
    9.8

    The Deep Tissue Percussion Muscle Massager You Need by Mebak

    By Cupid's Light Product Review Team
    9.7

    Adam & Eve’s JoyStick Rechargeable Wand Will Change Your Life

    By Cupid's Light Product Review Team
    9.6

    Orgasm Issues? Never Again With the Womanizer!

    By Cupid's Light Staff
    9.4

    Why You Need the Magic Massager STAT

    By Cupid's Light Product Review Team
    9.3

    The Hot or Not Quiz for Couples: Sexy Card Games For Couples with Naughty Questions and Revealing Answers

    By Cupid's Light Staff
    HOT NEW QUIZZES

    Are You Emotionally Available?

    Are You and Your Partner Emotionally Compatible?

    Are You Losing Interest In Your Partner?

    Are You Dating a Narcissist?

    Are They Into You?

    Cupid's Light
    • RELATIONSHIPS
    • MARRIAGE
    • COUPLES WELLNESS
    • SEX & PASSION
    • HOT PRODUCTS
    • WRITE FOR US
    The information on cupidslight.com is for information and entertainment purposes only. Cupid's Light is not responsible for any outcome arising from the use of the information on this site. You should consult a qualified professional familiar with your situation before using the information on this site. You must obtain consent and obey any applicable laws when engaging in sexual activities.

    Cupid's Light Participates in various affiliate programs, which means we may earn a commission on any purchases made using our links.

    © 2022 Cupid's Light. All rights reserved. Terms, Privacy & Cookie Policy

    Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.

    We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept All”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent.
    Cookie SettingsAccept All
    Manage consent

    Privacy Overview

    This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience.
    Necessary
    Always Enabled
    Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These cookies ensure basic functionalities and security features of the website, anonymously.
    CookieDurationDescription
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-analytics11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-functional11 monthsThe cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-necessary11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary".
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-others11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other.
    cookielawinfo-checkbox-performance11 monthsThis cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance".
    viewed_cookie_policy11 monthsThe cookie is set by the GDPR Cookie Consent plugin and is used to store whether or not user has consented to the use of cookies. It does not store any personal data.
    Functional
    Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features.
    Performance
    Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
    Analytics
    Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
    Advertisement
    Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads.
    Others
    Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.
    SAVE & ACCEPT