|||
Image source: Photo by JD Mason on Unsplash
These are relatively some of the questions you may ask yourself or your partner when they request for ‘space’, and no, it doesn’t necessarily mean the end of a blossoming or long-term relationship. Simply put, space refers to ‘time apart’, no matter how long it takes.
Though you may be confused with a million questions going through your mind, it is imperative to listen to what your partner has to say and understand the reason why they are asking for time apart. It may mean they want some physical and emotional distance between you and them to sort out and understand what they want for themselves.
It could mean that they are trying to make sense of subsequent stage(s) in their life with regards to their future with you or it could be personal. It may mean they are trying to enforce boundaries which makes sense if they have been feeling invaded and crowded by you, and it may also mean that they are gradually breaking up with you. It could be anything.
Whatever their reason, it is important that you don’t shove them but to respect their wishes because arguing, being offensive or defensive all in the bid to change their mind or press for information may lead nowhere. However, you can ask them if it means little or no communication, ask them how you can show your support and politely stand by their request no matter how hard it seems for you.
see it as an opportunity for you to grow, improve your relationship with your family and friends and form new ones. You can develop yourself emotionally and remain optimistic. You can volunteer, learn something new and even if your partner does not come around, try not to fixate on what went wrong even though it may hurt, know that everything happens for a reason. While that closed, a beautiful chapter comes and you will be ready to take it on.
