The Pros And Cons Of Taking A Relationship Break

PRO – You get to reassess your priorities

What do you want to accomplish in your life? Is a long-term relationship something you have time for right now? One of the good things about taking a break is the room it allows you to have to think about your goals and ambitions.

CON – Removes much-needed intimacy

If you’re complaining about not spending time with your partner, the last thing you need is to take a break. A break will only make your efforts of much-needed intimacy even more difficult–if not impossible.

PRO – You can focus on other things

When you’re so focused on a relationship, it can often make it hard to concentrate on other things. Use this opportunity to explore different areas of your life that may not have received the same attention while you were busy being in love.

CON – They can date other people

Just because you aren’t ready to date other people doesn’t mean your former flame is going to stay hidden. With a relationship break comes the freedom to entertain others. Don’t think it won’t happen.

PRO – Gives you much needed “me” time

When is the last time you spent an evening with yourself or did something for you? Use this break as an opportunity to learn more about yourself, your wants and needs.

CON – It can make your busy schedule even busier

Some folks cope with a relationship break by filling their downtime with too many activities and obligations. Even if this helps to ease your emotional pain, you will most likely burn yourself out.

PRO – You can see what’s out there

This one is important for people who have been with their partner since high school or college. Sometimes it’s good to explore your options. No one is saying that you must keep a Rolodex of potential candidates, but a little shopping around and comparison doesn’t hurt.

CON – If you’re not careful, it can lead to a love child

“I love you and I’m glad we’re back together…but I have a baby on the way.”

Wait, what?

Pharmacies must have been short on condoms as celebs like Ludacris and Dwyane Wade fathered children during short “breaks” from their partners. From the outside looking it, it appears that these stars were able to mend their once broken relationships, but still…messy, messy, messy.

PRO – Makes you step your game up

There’s nothing like a break or a breakup to make a woman step her game up. It can be just the push needed to switch up our appearance, hit the gym, or make other changes that will make our exes wish they had worked harder to keep us.

CON – Shows a weakness in the foundation

Hate to be the one to mention it, but relationship breaks aren’t ideal or even very healthy for that matter. They reveal a weakness in your foundation since many successful relationships don’t require time apart in order to work.

PRO – Leaves room for a new hobby

Now is the time to use your extra free time to your advantage. Try out a new hobby or pursue a new business venture. Discover something new about yourself!

CON – Also leaves room for doubt

It’s only natural to question your relationship if you’re headed for a break. Is it strong enough to weather the storm? Do the two of you have what it takes to build a future together?

PRO – Tests compatibility

Does anyone remember that TV show Change of Heart? Struggling couples would go on blind dates to see if they wanted to work on their relationship or be single so they could mingle. Consider a relationship break in the same way, as it allows you to see just how compatible you really are. Introducing someone new into the mix can give you the clarity you need.

CON – Makes it easy to quit

Just because things aren’t working out in your relationship doesn’t mean you have to automatically take a break. Doing so can sometimes be considered the easy way out as many couples rough out the bad times until things get better.

PRO – Can make you a stronger couple

Hopefully you’re one of the lucky couples who can take time away from each other, regroup, and come back stronger than ever. Breaks may be necessary if you find it hard to work on yourself.