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-   -   Girlfriend wants a break... I'm stuck (https://www.askmehelpdesk.com/showthread.php?t=17451)

  • Jan 9, 2006, 05:05 PM
    lost??
    Girlfriend wants a break... im stuck
    Hello,

    I posted on this topic about a month ago. Me and my ex had been going out for over 2 years then at the end of novemeber she said she wanted a break. She said she wanted time to focus on herself and find out what she wants. I've been up and down about it and I think I mite be OK now. I've been talking to her as friends and I always end up bringing up the relationship. I don't want to it just comes out and then it ends up making her annoyed and me feel worse. She says she still loves me and that there's a part of her that still wants to be with me. I think I am still in love with her too. But I mean I did everything for this girl... so I kind of feel stabbed in the back. But I don't want to be dragged along on this break until one day she says she never wants to be with me. But I don't know if I want to move on either and give up hope on us. I know I'm not thinking straight and everyone I asked for help has told me different things, either to hold on or let go. I mean if I let go I might give up the chance of us ever being together again. But if I hold on and we don't get back together, I know ill be even worse off. What should I do? Also, if I do move on, should I still be the nice guy I am to girls or should I not do everything for them like I did this last time. Any help is greatly appreciated. Thanks
  • Jan 9, 2006, 05:27 PM
    nymphetamine
    You can't bring up the relationship honey. That's really blowing it. When you feel like you have to say something just calm down take a deep breath and don't talk about the relationship. I know its hard. Sometimes you feel like if you don't talk about it you will burst but, you got to not. I think its great you can get along as friends. However if you can't be around her with out bringing it up every time then maybe you need a little time away from each other. Not forever but just for a little while. I know you really care about this girl but I don't think she is truly getting the space that she asked for. She said there's a part of her that still wants to be with you right? Well then you've got a great chance. Just give it some time and you know what she will come back to you. Not you to her but her to you. Who knows maybe while you guys are hanging out as friends it could happen. I wish you luck.
  • Jan 9, 2006, 05:28 PM
    letmeno
    Move on
    The thought of our ex moving on and we are left out in the cold, holding on to feelings, holding on to the past, and holding on to a non-exhistant relationship is depressing. It is a scary thought of someone that we loved so much, moving on without us. But you have to dig somewhere really deep within yourself to do the same also. She has asked you for a break for various reasons. But the main reason that she has asked you for a break is simply because she no longer wants to be with you. Not because she is so much in love with you that she can't focus on herself, not because she is confused about life, only because she does not want to be in this relationship anymore. It seems to me that you are unable to be this woman's "friend" without drudging up the past and old feelings. She acts annoyed when you do this because she could feel a little guilty about the break up, she is ready to move on to the next chapter in her life and you are forcing her to take steps back to a place that she no longer wants to go. If you want to be her friend then you really need to stop doing this, you are going to force her into a corner, and she will either A come out fighting, or B cut you off as a friend. Do not continue to do this to her. Allow her the space, time, and freedom that she wants. If she is not showing you any sighns of wanting to get back together then you need to move on. You can't hold on to a person that does not want to be held on to.
    Good Luck
  • Jan 9, 2006, 07:43 PM
    s_cianci
    My suggestion to you would be to let go and move on but do so with "reconciliation reserve", to coin a phrase. What I mean by that is that your basically consider the relationship to be over, move on with your life and pursue other interests. However, you can continue to talk to her as a friend (but DON"T bring up the relationship) and let her know that your life is just fine and dandy without her. You don't come right out and actually say that but let your actions and words make that implication. You may well find her crawling back to you and then you'll have the power in the relationship and it won't be likely that she'll be needing any more "breaks."
  • Jan 9, 2006, 07:50 PM
    letmeno
    Very true! The most attractive man is the unavailable one. Don't know why it is but it is.
  • Jan 9, 2006, 08:42 PM
    confused25
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by s_cianci
    My suggestion to you would be to let go and move on but do so with "reconciliation reserve", to coin a phrase. What I mean by that is that your basically consider the relationship to be over, move on with your life and pursue other interests. However, you can continue to talk to her as a friend (but DON"T bring up the relationship) and let her know that your life is just fine and dandy without her. You don't come right out and actually say that but let your actions and words make that implication. You may well find her crawling back to you and then you'll have the power in the relationship and it won't be likely that she'll be needing any more "breaks."

    Are you sure that telling her that your life is fine and dandy without her is a good idea. I mean if she thinks his life is so great she may become heart broken and feel that she is not needed anymore. She will realize that she made a mistake but don't you think she will be afraid to make a move because now she feels that all is lost because he has moved on and he is happy? It may cause her to feel that he is no longer interested in her, and in effect push her away.
  • Jan 9, 2006, 11:07 PM
    PrettyLady
    Lost, if your girlfriend has said she wants a break from your relationship, maybe it's her way of letting go. I know your hurting, but you need to get on with your life. Pick yourself up and move on, you will find someone better later.
  • Jan 10, 2006, 02:14 AM
    talaniman
    Stuck ?
    I hate to be the one to tell you this but this relationship is over!No amount of denial,crying,hoping or moping is going to change that!You are right though for the time being your stuck!The best way to get unstuck is to accept the fact that she ready to move on without you and you should do the same.I know that it is easier said than done but you have to man up and continue on with your own life.This site is loaded with guys and girls in your same situation and the advice is always the same.Get your head together and leave her alone.Not for her ,but for you!No calls no e-mail, no contact!No crying no moonig no pining!Man to man whether this break-up was your fault or not,doesn't matter get over it and better luck next time,and there will be a next time,trust me there always is!:cool:
  • Jan 10, 2006, 06:40 AM
    DJ 'H'
    The past is something that needs to be laid to rest. You cannot go backwards only forwards.

    If you have a little time away from your ex and allow yourself some time to do things for yourself - your hobbies hanging out with your friends etc.

    Give yourself sometime to clear your head and figure out what it is you want. Then when you see her again you will be thinking sraight and you will know exactly how you feel and what you want - it will also allow her to do the very same. Time apart is always the best option.

    There is two things that could happen..

    Absence will make the heart grow fonder

    Or

    Out of sight out of mind

    Either way, you will both know what you want and will be able to let each other know where you stand once and for all.
  • Jan 10, 2006, 07:17 AM
    fredg
    Lost love
    Hi, lost??
    It is really hard to move on... been there, done that. Most of us have, during a lifetime.
    I am 63, married 28 yrs to a wonderful woman, and had the same problems many years ago.
    One thing we learn about life, is that we can't have everything we want, especially when she doesn't want us!
    It will be hard, but you can move on with your life. You will eventually find someone who respects you, is honest and open, and will love you; just as much as you love her. It will take some time, but you will find her.
    I do wish you the best, and good luck; hang in there.
  • Jan 10, 2006, 08:18 AM
    confused25
    I'm not sure if I agree with the rest that all hope is lost. I think there is hope. You said you broke up at the end of November. That means you have only had about a month and a half off. Problem is that there really has been no break because you keep bringing up the relationship. She asked for time off now give it too her. If you want to hold on to the chance that things will work out then you are going too have to wait months. It could take her from 2 months to 6 months to a year or even never. I suggest you keep talking to her, be her friend, and continue with your life for now. I'm sure you already let her know in some way or another that you were going to wait till she was ready. So just wait.

    But remember in doing so you are setting yourself up for a world of hurt. It's up to you if you are willing to face that. All I can advise, if you really love her and want her back, then just wait and don't date for a bit (not dating is actually a good thing in many ways because it helps clear your head and its not fair to lead on other girls when you have feelings for someone else). Keep contact with her, but to a minimum, the same way you do with friends. For example if she e-mails don't be in such a hurry to respond. Give it a day or two. If you notice that she starts dating (if this happens I suggest not confronting her about it) then realize that chances have become much more slim and you should move on. Even if you two both start seeing other people there is still hope you will get back together. At this point however you might realize that you just are not interested anymore, maybe you found someone else, which is completely fine.

    Stay friends, wait as long as you can, while waiting enjoy life (no need to date but hang out with friends or do other things you enjoy), from there things will play out on their own. If she moves on accept it and do the same.
  • Jan 10, 2006, 08:22 AM
    DJ 'H'
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by confused25
    I'm not sure if I agree with the rest that all hope is lost. I think there is hope. You said you broke up at the end of November. That means you have only had about a month and a half off. Problem is that there really has been no break because you keep bringing up the relationship. She asked for time off now give it too her. If you want to hold on to the chance that things will work out then you are going too have to wait months. It could take her from 2 months to 6 months to a year or even never. I suggest you keep talking to her, be her friend, and continue with your life for now. I'm sure you already let her know in some way or another that you were going to wait till she was ready. So just wait.

    But remember in doing so you are setting yourself up for a world of hurt. It's up to you if you are willing to face that. All I can advise, if you really love her and want her back, then just wait and don't date for a bit (not dating is actually a good thing in many ways because it helps clear your head and its not fair to lead on other girls when you have feelings for someone else). Keep contact with her, but to a minimum, the same way you do with friends. For example if she e-mails don't be in such a hurry to respond. Give it a day or two. If you notice that she starts dating (if this happens I suggest not confronting her about it) then realize that chances have become much more slim and you should move on. Even if you two both start seeing other people there is still hope you will get back together. At this point however you might realize that you just are not interested anymore, maybe you found someone else, which is completely fine.

    Stay friends, wait as long as you can, while waiting enjoy life (no need to date but hang out with friends or do other things you enjoy), from there things will play out on their own. If she moves on accept it and do the same.

    I agree - I pretty much said the same thing lol :)
  • Jan 10, 2006, 09:11 AM
    Wildcat21
    So many mistakes and problems here.

    This guy keeps putting pressure on the woman by bring up the relationship THAT SHE 100% IN HER head THAT SHE WANTS NO PART OF. BY Bring up the relationship and reminding her what a Wuss Bag he was it just reaffirms her decision was 100% correct. Woman hate this!! It's called Pinning and begging.

    "but i mean i did everything for this girl.... " - that's a HUGE problem/mistakes - women DON'T want this. My god - you put this gal on a pedestal and women NEVER want that.

    Ughhhhhhhhhhhhhhh - another guy with 'nice guy' syndrom. You pushed this gal 100% away AND keep pushing her away BY BEING INSECURE, NEEDY, CLINGY, JEALOUS. Women HATE THAT!! I smell this coming out of the computer.

    Dude - get a life. Women are never your whole life - they are part of it. You get hurt when you do this.

    You got to grow up and learn about woman. They don't want a 'girlfriend' as a boyfriend who is all sensitive. Soft sensitive guy loses every time.

    Asking about a relationship is a woman's job. You need to learn to be cool, fun guy, NO Pressure - BE BUSY - she doesn't want to be with you all the time - no way - Yuck - women have a life too. They need mystery, not some goof that tells her everything under the sun about himself and how he feels.

    You share your feelings too soon and she's gone.

    By constantly asking about the relationship you set it WAY BACK. I advise not evening calling or having anything to do with her for 2 months. Work on yourself - start working out, learn about how to deal with women and learn how to create attraction.

    Learn that women DO NOT thin klike men at all... they rely moreo and their feelinsg.

    AGAIN - go to these sites and learn about 'Nice Guys' and how bad it is for business - it's NOT being mean, rude, etc - it's not making her your world and putting her on a pedestal. Just like guys, women do wrong all the time - they don't want pedestal and don't deserve it.

    www.sosuave.com
    www.askmen.com - READ EVERY DATING ARTICLE - ESPECIALLY DR. LOVE - HE WILL SET YOU STRAIGHT AND IT ISN'T PRETTY.

    www.relationships.blog-city.com - a hard core site but you need a dose of reality. You're in this dream world where - "if she only knew how I really feel" - yuck!! WOmen want the chase, the feeling that you just might leave at anytime...

    WHEN YOU TOTALLY SURRENDER TO A WOMEN... SHE WANTS OUT.
  • Jan 10, 2006, 10:27 AM
    confused25
    I'm going to have to disagree with what some of WildCat said. I think ignoring her for 2 months is a bad idea. Every person in this world likes to know they are cared about. So by asking her how she's doing, how's school, etc. shows maturity and that you still care enough to know about how she is doing. Furthermore by not bringing up the relationship during such a conversation shows you are man enough to put aside feelings and simply see how she is doing. Don't over do it though because then you might end up in the dreaded "friend zone." But ignoring her for two months will, in my opinion, end any hope that there was.
  • Jan 10, 2006, 10:51 AM
    Wildcat21
    That's really abd advice. You don't get it. It doesn't work that way except in the movies. I've helped a lot guys get through this. I have a whole stable of guys I've helped get their gal back.

    This woman doesn't want to be wit hhim right now.

    He needs to grow up and become a man about things. Mr. Softy needs to go. I deal in tough love. He needs to realize what pushed her away.

    She doesn't deserve his time either.

    PEOPLE WANT WHAT THEY CAN'T HAVE. Always and for ever.

    By doing that she will feel she has him.
  • Jan 10, 2006, 12:28 PM
    confused25
    I think you are overgeneralizing women. I believe there are a lot of women out there who want a soft sensitive guy. Every person is different. For example some girls like it, before the first kiss, that you ask beforehand. They think it's sweet. Others don't like it for the reasons you talk about, because it makes the guy look like a wimp. Every woman, person for that matter, is different. So different women need to be approached differently.
  • Jan 10, 2006, 12:36 PM
    nymphetamine
    It would be nice if they would let me rate you confused but, you are right on the money. I am a very affectionate person and I crave attention. I don't like clingy guys but, I will pick one over a guy who is never there for me anyday. That's right wildcat. I said Ill pick a clingy guy. I wish they had one of those smilies with the devil horns and the evil grin in here. Oh and no that doesn't mean I don't have confidence or self esteem wildcat. I am so hot I sizzle. Sssssssssssss. I just like to be loved on.
  • Jan 10, 2006, 01:54 PM
    Wildcat21
    IF you act too anxious to make a relationship work, even if the other person initially seemed to be the one who wanted it, they will become turned off and start looking for the exits. Next time you decide you really want somebody, play your cards close to your chest. Don’t let on how excited you’ve become. Slowly over many months of time you can eventually show more commitment on your part, but do so incrementally, remaining alert to equal signs of commitment back. If at any point your devotion is more than an equal share, back off and give the other person a chance to catch up before proceeding further.

    It is their perception, rightly or wrongly, that someone nice must be desperately needy. The neediness or dependent characteristics exhibited by a person are actually what is repulsive.
  • Jan 10, 2006, 05:22 PM
    talaniman
    Confused 25
    Your right that there are women out there that love sensitive guys but are you sure that the one you have now is one of those?Some times we fellas have to know when to fold up the tents and move on to the next town!:cool:
  • Jan 10, 2006, 05:33 PM
    letmeno
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by confused25
    Are you sure that telling her that your life is fine and dandy without her is a good idea. I mean if she thinks his life is so great she may become heart broken and feel that she is not needed anymore. She will realize that she made a mistake but don't you think she will be afraid to make a move because now she feels that all is lost because he has moved on and he is happy? It may cause her to feel that he is no longer interested in her, and in effect push her away.


    Letting her know that he is able to move on with or without her will let her know that she is not the center of his universe, it will show her that he can be happy without her, it will show that he has some backbone. If she has not tried to get back with him by now, it's more than likely that she is not. That is until he becomes unavailable to her.
  • Jan 10, 2006, 06:32 PM
    lost??
    Hey
    Whoa I didn't mena to cause a big contraversay... haha nah but seriously thanks everyone for your reply. I talked to her yesterday and I didn't bring up the relationship. All her life she's never been on her own and I think that she just wants to have that for now. I told her I don't know why but that I understand that. We told each other that we still care about one another and that were still important to each other. I said that I knew I wasn't giving her the space she asked for and that if I kept this up we wouldn't be able to remain friends. So I said it probably would be best if we just didn't talk for a while. I'm actually feeling pretty good about it. I know she's not going to be with anyone else... at least not for not. She really does just want time to be by herself. So I'm going to back off for a while. I told her id call in a couple of weeks to see if she wanted to do something and she said shed like that. I realize that we may not get back together and that I may have to move on. I consider the relationship over which I think is the first step. I think I'm over the worst of it. But I just want to know, do you think I'm doing the right thing by backing off? I think I am but I know its going to be hard so what can I do in the meantime to not contact her. I'm going to be pretty busy with work soon and that whole working out thing sounds pretty good... I could use it haha. But seriously am I doing the right thing by backing off and if so what can I do in order to stay strong and not contact her? Thanks for everything
  • Jan 10, 2006, 07:42 PM
    talaniman
    Lost?
    Hey man the reason everyone wants you to back off and get your own life is for your own good!You seem to take every bone she throws to you as hope that she will come back to you and things will be great. Love is blind and so are you!YOU need time to step back and take a look at yourself for a minute.In the real world we often have to make decisions we don't particularly like but life has a way of giving us what we need as opposed to giving us what we want!Look, you love this woman, OK I get that, but she isn't loving you back!From where I sit, by what you've said, then your choice is be at her beck and call ,or man up and get a life of your own without her!Now you can hold out and keep your contact or you can show her,as well as yourself that you have the strength to carry on yourself!Me myself I would have been long gone ,cried in my pillow and moved on,If she needs a friend ,I'm sure she already has one,as for you do you have a friend, do you have her?Take care of yourself or else you can't expect to take care of someone else! That just isn't fair! Is it?:cool: :eek: :rolleyes:
  • Jan 10, 2006, 08:12 PM
    s_cianci
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by confused25
    Are you sure that telling her that your life is fine and dandy without her is a good idea. I mean if she thinks his life is so great she may become heart broken and feel that she is not needed anymore. She will realize that she made a mistake but don't you think she will be afraid to make a move because now she feels that all is lost because he has moved on and he is happy? It may cause her to feel that he is no longer interested in her, and in effect push her away.

    That may happen in some instances, but more often than not once she senses that he's doing fine without her she'll want to worm her way back into his life. I speak from years of experience looking back at my bachelor days. I believe that, contrary to lore, women have egos as well as men and if they think that a former love interest is doing well without them and has in fact moved on and essentially forgotten about them, they can't handle that and have to be wanted, needed or loved so they try to craw back into the life of the one who at one time did love or need them, even after being the one who initiated the breaking up. I do believe that, just as possesiveness and clingyness are signs of insecurity and weakness, so are aloofness and elusiveness signs of strength and stability. Women often have a sixth sense for picking up on that and respond accordingly. Only a woman with very weak esteem would give up as you suggest because she feels that he's no longer interested in her. Also, if you read the sentence immediately after the one you added emphaisis to, you'll notice that I specified not to come right out and say so but to let the actions speak instead. Gloating is never a good thing and that will backfire. At best, he should tell her that life is "fine and dandy" but leave out the "without you" part ; she'll figure that out for herself and that's the idea.
  • Jan 11, 2006, 09:38 AM
    Wildcat21
    s_cianci - IS DEAD ON! That is real life. Is words are 100% accurate. YES SHOW IT! - NEVER SAY HOW YOU FEEL.

    Great stuff s_cianci - you now what's going.

    Ughhhhhhhhhh - this Dude is still contacting her and bringing up the relationship - even when he says he didn't.

    She most likely is with someone else - someone not so needy, women jump from men to men. She just doesn't want to hurt this guy - he's fragile.

    "Are you sure that telling her that your life is fine and dandy without her is a good idea. I mean if she thinks his life is so great she may become heart broken and feel that she is not needed anymore." - THAT ONLY WORKS IN THE MOVIES. THIS IS REALITY.

    Absence always makes the heart grow fonder.

    PEOPLE WANT WHAT THEY CAN'T HAVE. - ALWAYS AND FOR EVER.

    Leave this gal alone. Work on yourself - you have a lot to learn.
  • Jan 14, 2006, 01:17 PM
    lost??
    Hi
    I'm done with this. What all you guys has made a lot of sense to me. I still care about her but I have to look out for myself. I've decided to give up and move on. I mean, I guess there's still a part of me that wants to hold onto her but I know that I shouldn't and I am not going to. As far as I'm concerned its over. I know that it'll be hard for a while but like so many of you said "i have to get my own life without her". I haven't talked to her in four days and it doesn't really bother me. And I'm not going to contact her either. I figure she's the one who really lost out, not me. I can find someone else to be with but shell have a hard time finding someone who's going to treat her like I did. So yea I'm going to move on. Someday down the road if she wants to get back together then I guess that be OK but I'm not counting on it anymore. I really don't know if I'm just kidding myself about this but I feel that its something I have to do to get on with my life. What do you guys think?
  • Jan 14, 2006, 02:21 PM
    confused25
    I think you are making the right choice. If things are meant to be and she really does love you then she will contact you eventually. But don't hold out hope because when it comes to these types of situation hope will simply tear you apart. Move on with your life and enjoy it.
  • Jan 14, 2006, 02:57 PM
    Chery
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by lost??
    im done with this. what all you guys has made a lot of sense to me. i still care about her but i have to look out for myself. ive decided to give up and move on. i mean, i guess theres still a part of me that wants to hold onto her but i know that i shouldnt and i am not going to. as far as im concerned its over. i know that itll be hard for a while but like so many of you said "i have to get my own life without her". i havent talked to her in four days and it doesnt really bother me. and im not going to contact her either. i figure shes the one who really lost out, not me. i can find someone else to be with but shell have a hard time findin someone whos gonna treat her like i did. so yea im gonna move on. someday down the road if she wants to get back together then i guess that be ok but im not counting on it anymore. i really dont know if im just kidding myself about this but i feel that its something i have to do to get on with my life. what do you guys think?

    I think your own comments about giving her space in post 21 was very well what you should do and by all means, don't let your life stand still waiting. But, stay friends, and when she is done with having a break and being alone to get to know herself and what she wants in life, and then contacts you again, you can rest assured she has thought a lot through and is probably ready to make more of a commitment than before, since you yourself said that she was hardly ever alone. By being alone yourself, you probably also weighed the pros and cons of what relationships should be and how to help develop them better - any man with a brain and time to himself does reflect, and so do we women. How else do you think people can chose to plan their future unless given time to be alone and reflect on things that they do or do not tolerate and start being more honest and no more game playing in any relationship. Life is that way, and we cannot change others, only ourselves and for that - time is required to asses what real life is about. Once the decision is made, and she just might contact you and want to tell you her conclusion, be fair enough to listen and you might be pleasantly surprised. If not, then you already know what your life without her will be like - but again, there is no need to stand still and just wait on her. Don't avoid her, but let her make the first move now, that way you can be assured that there was no pressure from you for her choice. My feeling is that until you hear the very last words that it's totally over, there is still hope and you might even bond stronger than before. Anything is possible at this point as long as you don't waste your time in self-pity and have more confidence in yourself. Sometimes we women need time to reflect and appreciate what we had and admit that we want it back. Men are also this way, but are taught to be 'macho' which can benefit but also ruin things, so play it by ear until, again, you hear those final words. No matter what your choice, I wish you a lot of luck, contentment, and happiness in the future. There are men out there who 'want their space' too at times - it's called mid-life crisis, and we are only human - all of us. Again, good luck and keep us posted.

    http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/3/3_11_8.gifSearching for the one to grow old together with can be the hardest job in the world, but just might be worth the wait. And nobody is 100 percent perfect.

    P.S. Crankiebabie, DJ H, and Confused - you've got some good points there - too bad I can't rate anyone today anymore.
  • Jan 14, 2006, 07:24 PM
    confused25
    I like the way Chery thinks
    "My feeling is that until you hear the very last words that it's totally over, there is still hope and you might even bond stronger than before."

    I think those are some very wise words. When someone says they want to "take a break" it doesn't always mean the relationship is done and finished. Believe it or not but not all people use those words as an excuse to get rid of you. A lot of the times it really means he/she just simply needs to take a break and take care of other things in life. There is definitely still hope that things will work out in the future, just don't let this hope consume your day-to-day life, because if you do and it doesn't work out then you will hurt much more. Remember to give her (and you) the space that is needed and as someone said earlier, remember to take care of yourself.
  • Jan 14, 2006, 08:00 PM
    talaniman
    After you hang your butt out of the window then you will see that you have no commitment!Your in love but is she?You are ready to commit,is she?ASK her then !IS she ready to commit to you?If not you need to move on!:cool: :eek:
  • Jan 15, 2006, 07:53 AM
    Chery
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by talaniman
    After you hang your butt out of the window then you will see that you have no commitment!Your in love but is she?You are ready to commit,is she?ASK her then !IS she ready to commit to you?If not you need to move on!:cool: :eek:

    It's easier said than done, when told to ask, as most people have two fears; fear of not making enough money to live on, and fear of REJECTION - therefore the asking is usually put off until it's too late, even though the frustration of the unknown is more uncomfortable than the answer received would be. At least then, you can go on with life and know where you stand. We all have to just remember that no couple on this whole world is ever 100% happy or perfect, but with work, it's possible to shoot for at least a 95% and that's better than living alone with nothing. But, as I said, after a break and she goes back to him, she will be more sure that the relationship working better is a possibility, and he will also be reassured - so what is there to lose?

    http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/23/23_30_124.gifJust plain human nature, I guess - and the stress of society and 'trends'. - "nothing tried, nothing gained" - not even experience and personal growth.
  • Jan 16, 2006, 07:42 PM
    lost??
    Update
    I'm still up and down about this whole thing. I know I sound like a wuss and that I said I was going to let go but I don't know if I should or not. I mean its not like this thing consumes my whole life or anything. But as you can tell I'm still stressin over it. I know that she just wants her space and I've finally been giving it to her. I really do want to know where I stand and how she feels about me but when I used to asked her she would say "i dont know. i still love you but i just need to figure things out for myself". When I asked her if she would care if I met someone else she told me "of course i would. i still love you, but i would have no right to get mad at you". To me that sounds like she really wouldn't care and is dragging me on. What do you think? I know that everyone knows what I mean when I say I feel stuck between letting go and holding on. But at the same time, people keep telling me there's hope. And its hard for me cause I'm starting a new job at a great firm where I'm going to be very successful. But I want to share that with someone and I guess I still want it to be her. I know that if we don't work out ill find someone else, I mean I'm only 21. But still, and I know if we don't get back together this will eventually fade away, I don't want to be with anyone else. And I mean my friends have been great through this whole thing. They have been there for me the whole time. But they're probably getting tired of hearing this. People tell me to make her miss me and what we had but how? Just by not talking to her? I plan on seeing her the beginning of next month. I know I shouldn't bring up the relationship, but should I still ask her where we stand? Should I tell her that I want to move on (im not even sure if I want to or not)? I know that she doesn't know what she wants but you know its unfair what she's doing to me, especially after how good I was to her. The breaking up is not the worst part, it's the not knowing and being stuck. What do you guys think? Thanks
  • Jan 16, 2006, 09:23 PM
    talaniman
    Lost??
    The ideal situation for most of us is too find someone to share our life with.The bad part is the changes we go through on our way through life, that make us feel stuck or helpless or worse ,powerless!I understand that your feelings for this girl are still so fresh you can't feel or think of anything else!But you have to trust me and your own instincts here,If she loved you the way you loved her she'd be with you right now you wouldn't be going up and down and back and forth,you should be planning a life not trying to fiqure it out,this female has no clue as to what she wants but needs you close for her own reasons,whatever they are you don't help things at all by hanging around and promoting her indecision.The only thing for sure is she does not want a commitment with you but still needs your presence in her life.Every day she counts on your endless love to keep you coming around!So big boy what are you going to do?Play games at your own expense or clean out your life and move ahead?Your call, make a decision and stick to it!:cool:
  • Jan 17, 2006, 03:13 AM
    DJ 'H'
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by talaniman
    The ideal situation for most of us is too find someone to share our life with.The bad part is the changes we go thru on our way thru life, that make us feel stuck or helpless or worse ,powerless!I understand that your feelings for this girl are still so fresh you can't feel or think of anything else!But you have to trust me and your own instincts here,If she loved you the way you loved her she'd be with you right now you wouldn't be going up and down and back and forth,you should be planning a life not trying to fiqure it out,this female has no clue as to what she wants but needs you close for her own reasons,whatever they are you don't help things at all by hanging around and promoting her indecision.The only thing for sure is she does not want a commitment with you but still needs your presence in her life.Every day she counts on your endless love to keep you coming around!So big boy what are you gonna do?Play games at your own expense or clean out your life and move ahead?Your call, make a desicion and stick to it!:cool:

    Nicely put - I agree totally!! You just have to accept things for what they are, move on and learn from it. It is something we have all had to do at some point or another and yes it was tough, there were times when I thiught I would never come out the other side, but things change - that's life. We are all on a long journey to find that special someone to share our lives with for eternity, some people think they have found them only to discover later they had not after all. It all happens for us, but at different stages and usually when we are content with ourselves & our lives. I have Pete now and I am scared stiffless that I am falling in love with him, because the last time I did, I got really hurt - but without taking that risk, I may never learn to love again. Pete and I may not work out, if we did not I would be devastated. But because of my experience, I would be able to get back up on my feet and carry on with my life a lot better than I could before.

    Just make a decision one way or the other and get on with your life. There is a lot of things you are missing out on - don't waste anymore time; time is too precious to throw away. You should "enjoy every day as if it was your last and enjoy every night as if it was your first".
  • Jan 17, 2006, 07:09 PM
    Chery
    Quote:

    she would say "i dont know. i still love you but i just need to figure things out for myself". When I asked her if she would care if I met someone else she told me "of course I would. I still love you, but I would have no right to get mad at you
    Hey, listening to all the friends, and 'reading' between lines, and putting words in her mouth when she says something, is not going to help you at all. Do you believe anything anyone ever says to you? Do you think that you both deserve an amount of trust here? She said she still loves you, but has no right to get mad - which is true, because she does not own you and you don't own her - you are both independent individuals and some people who tell the truth and don't bring out that jealous 'I own you' attitude get thought of as cold. We can care a lot about someone, but have no right to forbid things of them therefore just accept the fact - but that's not being cold - it's being respectful and still hopeful. So see her next month, and do ask appropriate questions, but without stress on both parts, if possible. Don't always think of the worst first, and give each other a chance. You can always turn away and leave if it does not work, but you might also miss out if you think too negatively and never trust anyone. Relax and see what comes - it's not like it's the last chance you'll get in this world, your are still young. Good Luck!
  • Jan 21, 2006, 12:52 PM
    lost??
    Hey
    So we're going out to dinner next week. I know that I shouldn't bring up the relationship but I want to let her know that I'm doing fine without her. I know I can't come right out and say it but how do I let her know? Also do you think it's a good idea to ask her if the break is still going on or if she has no desire to get back together at all now (its been 2 months)? I know I'm still young and all but right now I have a great job with so much opportunity, I'm 1st in my class in college and I have my head striaght about things (well everything but this haha). And its not like I'm one of those people who sits in and studies all the time. I'm always out at parties or whatever having a good time. I am going to be very successful some day and I know anyone would be lucky to be with me. I want to share all this with someone, and I guess I still want it to be her. Someday I know ill look back on this and want to kick my own *** for being so weak and needy but for right now I don't know what to do. This sucks haha. Any suggestions??
  • Jan 21, 2006, 02:03 PM
    Wildcat21
    Don't bring up the relationship! Please! Just have fun.

    You bring up and YOU WILL PUSH HER AWAY!! You WILL put pressure on her - women don't want pressure. You set the relationship WAY back.

    Talk about how busy you are. How great school is. Fun things your doing. Yo uwant to be thefun guy - NOT the uptight guy who is always worried about the relationship. You need toshowwho that you don't care if she comes or goes... People Want What They Can't Have!! Always.

    LISTEN TO HER!! Let her talk!! The greatest conversationalist are masters at listening and reflrcting - it goes a long way. Bill Clinton is master at conversation - HE LISTENS and reflects and asks questions.
  • Jan 21, 2006, 02:32 PM
    cheer-love
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by lost??
    hello,

    i posted on this topic about a month ago. me and my ex had been going out for over 2 years then at the end of novemeber she said she wanted a break. she said she wanted time to focus on herself and find out what she wants. ive been up and down about it and i think i mite be ok now. ive been talking 2 her as friends and i always end up bringing up the relationship. i dont want to it just comes out and then it ends up making her annoyed and me feel worse. she says she still loves me and that theres a part of her that still wants to be with me. i think i am still in love with her too. but i mean i did everything for this girl.... so i kinda feel stabbed in the back. but i dont want to be dragged along on this break until one day she says she never wants to be with me. but i dont know if i want to move on either and give up hope on us. i know im not thinking straight and everyone i asked for help has told me different things, either to hold on or let go. i mean if i let go i might give up the chance of us ever being together again. but if i hold on and we dont get back together, i know ill be even worse off. what should i do? also, if i do move on, should i still be the nice guy i am to girls or should i not do everything for them like i did this last time. any help is greatly appreciated. thanks

    Hey.
    If she still loves you then you have nothing to worry about. Give your girl space and time. Your understanding will mean the world to her.
  • Jan 22, 2006, 12:52 AM
    Chery
    How about just going out to dinner, enjoying the atmosphere, talking about the menu, foods you both like, ask her how her day was and LISTEN. Don't bring up any subject from the past unless it's only 24 hours new. Don't dwell on your needs and wants for just one evening, and stop being in a panic to have everything right now! Imagine that this is the first date with her and that you are really interested in what type of person she is - she already knows who and what you are, so you don't need to repeat that. Start a new sheet of music, she's heard the old. If you ask her what her plans for the future are, i.e. job, hobbies, goals, etc, then you just might get an idea of why she needed the break and what her interests really are and work from then on if you want her back.

    Good luck and have an easy, enjoyable evening.


    http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/5/5_7_1.gifSometimes, 'silence is golden', really.
  • Jan 24, 2006, 09:55 AM
    lost??
    Dinner
    I've decided that's what I'm going to do, just go to dinner and try to have a normal conversation. I know I'm going to want to, but I won't bring up the relationship at all. I know that it can only make things worse. She's not ready to talk about it so I'm not going to put pressure on her and force her to do it, like so many of you said that I was doing. I see that by doing that I am pushing her away. I am going to try and be the fun guy, try to joke around like we used to but without the whole relationship part. Ill tell her what I've been up to and see what she's been doing. But wildcat... you said that people want what they can't have... well how do I make her want me again, by acting like she can't have me and I've moved on? Or letting her know that's my intention? Talk about other girls? Or should I just be myself and act like this whole thing isn't getting me down? Thanks a lot and ill let you know how the dinner goes.
  • Jan 24, 2006, 10:06 AM
    DJ 'H'
    Quote:

    Originally Posted by lost??
    ive decided thats what im going to do, just go to dinner and try to have a normal conversation. i know im going to want to, but i wont bring up the relationship at all. i know that it can only make things worse. shes not ready to talk about it so im not going to put pressure on her and force her to do it, like so many of you said that i was doing. i see that by doing that i am pushing her away. i am going to try and be the fun guy, try to joke around like we used to but without the whole relationship part. ill tell her what ive been up to and see what shes been doing. but wildcat...... you said that people want what they can't have... well how do i make her want me again, by acting like she can't have me and ive moved on? or letting her know thats my intention? talk about other girls? or should i just be myself and act like this whole thing isnt getting me down? thanks a lot and ill let you know how the dinner goes.

    If you talk about other girls then she will think she has lost you completely and you are not interested in that way at all anymore and that you only want her friendship. The best thing to do, is just to play it cool, be yourself and make her see that you are just getting on with your life, that you are not moping or dwelling on everything that has happened between you.

    Girls love confidence and good company. If you listen to her, make jokes, stay relaxed and don't even mention the relationship, then you two are going to get on fine and you may even remind her of the man she fell in love with.

    However if there are awkward silences and you both find it hard to construct any sort of sentence to each other - then you will know that it's over and that there is no going back.

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