A break is not a breakup: Its a pause from the other person—a period to think without having to be around the other person during the thinking period. During a break none of the rules of the relationship change, except that you dont see the other person for the agreed-upon amount of time.

Do breaks in relationships lead to breakups?

In theory, breaks sound like a great idea, Jonathan Bennett, dating/relationship coach and owner of The Popular Man, tells Bustle. Theyre a chance to reset the relationship, get some space, and honestly evaluate how each person feels. However, in practice, breaks rarely work and usually turn into breakups.

Does a break from a relationship work?

That said, relationship experts say that theres a right and a wrong way to take a break — and that taking a break can even be beneficial for a relationship, depending on the situation. Ending a relationship thats not working for you is a good thing.