Relationships can be complicated, time-consuming, and draining. However, this doesn’t mean both parties aren’t still in love with each other. It only means they have some stuff to work on for its continuity. If you’ve reached an emotional impasse with your partner, or the relationship completely entrenches you, and you need a breather, it may be time for a break. This piece highlights some practical measures that must be taken when going on a break.

Figure out why

Before you relay this information to your partner, carefully explore all reasons as to why this is a plausible step. Also, take into account that this step could potentially lead to the end of the relationship altogether. A lot of couples take breaks to re-evaluate their lives and figure out if they love each other enough to want to stay together. While others miss the excitement of the single life. Dig deep into your soul to find out why you feel you want this before meeting about it with your partner.

Set some rules

Leaving the relationship status ‘on a break’ without setting some ground rules gives you and your partner a blank check to do whatever they may want to do during this break. Establishing rules lets them know that you’re pretty much still invested in the relationship and how the break aims at its progress and not its demise. Things like how often you’d call each other, the possibilities of dating someone else, or how much time you’d both need to sort yourselves out should be discussed in person and not over the phone.

Make it count

Your time outside your relationship should be devoted to knowing yourself as an independent entity. Go to work, try new hobbies, visit new places, work out, try new cuisines, read new books and go out with your friends. In essence, revive every part of you that you feel has been suffering while you were entangled in the relationship. This will give you perspective on the steps to take after the break is called off.

Rather than breaking the relationship up completely, take the time out to find yourselves, and make decisions that are mutually beneficial by being objective.