Q: me and my girl broke up about two weeks ago. because she feels that she rushed into the relationship with me. she also feels that she needs space. can you explain in detail what that really means.
A: The best way to find out what she means, of course, is to ask her. I can guess that she likes and respects you but doesn’t think that the two of you are a match. By saying she “needs space”, she is trying to find a way to let you down gently.
You are college students. This is the time in life when you should be trying out relationships and finding out what you want and need from a partner and what you can offer another person. Too often people stay together just because it is simpler, not because it is right. When people do that, they are preventing themselves from finding someone who really could be right for them. As painful as it is to be the one left behind, it’s ultimately a good thing to be free to find the right someone for you. Your school is a big place with lots and lots of interesting, attractive people - including you. Stand tall and make yourself available. It’s time for you to move on.
I wish you well.
Dr. Marie
Not the answer you were looking for?
Get live advice
Last reviewed: By John M. Grohol, Psy.D. on 2 Nov 2006
