“We also can’t be together and in a relationship any longer.” 

Let that statement be your guide.

It’s possible you can be friends, or evolve into two people who share a significant bond, even as you find other life partners. But not right now.

You made a thoughtful, mature, and mutual decision to break up. It took honesty and courage. It sounds like you have to take it a step further and admit that the ongoing connection is too confusing – and, perhaps, painful.

Commit to taking some real time away from each other. Pay attention to other people in your community, and do your best to spend more hours alone to see how it feels.

Life without this ex may feel awkward, sad, and uncomfortable, but getting through these feelings might make it easier to reconnect later.

Again, I don’t want you to have to lose this person forever. But you’ve made the decision to break up. You both deserve some distance.

I can’t say how long you’ll need. Maybe start with a few months to see how it feels.

– Meredith

Readers? Is it time to let go? Does having an amicable, mature breakup make it even harder to take space? Can these two people take a few months off and reconnect? How much of a break have you needed before you’ve reconnected with an ex as a friend?

Send your own relationship question. Help others wondering the same thing. Use the form – or email [email protected].