Social Question

FluffyChicken's avatar

How often does taking a break mean just that, as opposed to ending in break up?

Asked by FluffyChicken (5521points) April 21st, 2011

When couples say they’re “taking a break” from each other, does this usually end up with getting back together, or does it generally end in a break up? Please feel free to share your stories.

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16 Answers

KateTheGreat's avatar

Different things happen every time. I’ve seen a lot of people take breaks and come back to an almost perfect relationship. I did this with my ex-boyfriend and it did not work so well. We were always back and forth. When we took a break, it was the best time I ever had in my life. I realized this and figured that I’d rather just go on with my life. It either works or it doesn’t. I believe the success/fail rate is half and half.

marinelife's avatar

It could be either one.

BarnacleBill's avatar

I have seen it work a few times. It depends on the reason for the difficulties. In one case, he cheated on her, she kicked him out. Within 2 months, he realized he had made a huge mistake. It took about 6 months of work on his part plus an engagement ring and a wedding date to convince her that he was sincerely sorry, and that it would never happen again. She really loved him, and in those 8 months, she dated other people (no sex). She suggested couples counseling before she agreed, and they went for about a year. The wedding’s in June.

Another time, she had family issues that she needed to resolve before the relationship could move forward. It took almost 2 years. He dated other people in that time, she did not.

seazen_'s avatar

I’m going to say 95% breaking up – 5% just need a break.

When’s the last time someone said: “We need to talk” and then said “Let’s take a second honeymoon together.”

Taking a Break is code for – I don’t want to be with you but I am afraid to hurt your feelings – and I am immature – so I need to hurt you first – and keep you on stand-by – while I sort my feelings out and determine if you’re worthy – and whether I am in the 95% percentile or 5%.

You wait. Mmmk. I’ll be in touch.

Blueroses's avatar

@seazen_ Perfect answer.

seazen_'s avatar

Why thank you dear.

augustlan's avatar

My ex-husband and I took a break when we were engaged. We didn’t date other people and it only lasted for a week or two. We came back together, got married, had three kids, and ultimately divorced 17 years later.

Another boyfriend and I took a break and proceeded to hate each other a little more every day. Who knows?

seazen_'s avatar

^ In the 5 percentile. ;-)

bobbinhood's avatar

I agree with @BarnacleBill that it depends on why they’re taking a break. If they’re taking a break because they need to sort out X, Y, and Z, that’s significantly different from taking a break because they’re just not feeling it. Generally, I think people take a break because the relationship is not working but they don’t want to let go of the hope that it will somehow be right again. So in most cases, a break is just a drawn out break up.

glenjamin's avatar

I was in said 5%

FluffyChicken's avatar

This ended up being in the 95 percentile :(

Blueroses's avatar

I’m sorry, Ms. @FluffyChicken.
I kind of gathered that when you asked to close your other discussion. Fluffy blankets and comedy DVDs going out to you.

Aster's avatar

If someone said , “I need a break from you” is that not the same thing as , “I need to take a break?” How a couple could ever have a successful relationship/marriage after hearing something like that is beyond me. It means, I think, somene has gotten on someone’s nerves. Not a good harbinger of happiness.

augustlan's avatar

I’m sorry to hear that @FluffyChicken. {hugs}

FluffyChicken's avatar

Thanks. I need those. lots of them.

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