Space After Argument
Is it normal that my bf wants space for over a week after an argument? He’s also been going through stress outside of the relationship.
I can't live with that
@Mikanicolay If he‘s been going through stress outside of the relationship as well, he might be feeling overwhelmed with everything. A common response to that feeling is to withdraw, and take some time to process things.
@Mikanicolay
Having space and being distant is indeed a tricky topic in a relationship. This is something that both of you can figure out by sitting down and figuring out a solution. Have you checked out the self help guide available in 7 cups website?
@Mikanicolay I think it’s normal for him to want some space, and it may have to do with the external stress you’ve mentioned. Perhaps he just needs some time.
@Mikanicolay
At times, certain individuals or people may require a bit of distance and time to process information, emotions, and events. The length of this period is certainly not uniform and may vary for each person.
I sense your frustration with your partner's tendency to withdraw or create distance following an argument. It can certainly add stress to the situation for you. Have you considered why he might need space? Is it to calm down and collect his thoughts? Does he tend to engage in introspection, or does he prefer to verbalize his thoughts?
It's understandable that you might wonder about his motivations and how he typically approaches conflict resolution. Does he use the time apart to self-reflect and gain clarity, or does he need space to cool down before discussing things further?And when you both do eventually come back together to resume conversation, how do you find things typically unfold?
@Mikanicolay
How does he usually respond after an argument? Does he cave in into his own space or talk it out? If he does require space, how long does it normally last?
As the relationship involves you two and you know the dynamics better, it would be best if any clarification on why the space and for how long it will be could be dealt between you and him, ask him. He has the answer and therein you'll find your answer and peace too.
@MikanicolayIt's not uncommon for people to need space and time to process their thoughts and emotions after an argument, especially when they're dealing with external stressors as well. Here are some thoughts on how to approach this situation:
@Mikanicolay I am sorry to hear about the argument between you and your boyfriend and him wanting space from you. I do understand how you feel.
@Mikanicolay
I'm so sorry that you are not sure how is he doing after that argument. I can understand that you believe some other issues might be making him stressed.
For some people wanting some space while being stressed, is necessary as it is for me too. For others might not be same.
Would you like to try reaching him now or after a week and let him know you are here for him in this time? This might clear his mind too that timeout he needed wasn't just because of argument but because of his overall issues and stress.
Hey @Mikanicolay
I'm sorry that you are feeling distressed because of your bf wanting space after an argument, that may feel like ghosting. I can understand this might get difficult to deal with sometimes. Here are few things that may help to navigate through this phase better:-
- Acknowledge and accept your feelings. Don't judge your feelings. It's okay to feel what you are feeling right now. Accept and embrace them all.
- Be open and understanding. Everyone has different style to cope, for some people taking a break actually helps them to settle down the chaos in their head so that they can address the issue with a calm and clear mind later. When refused to give that space it often creates more havoc.
- Be patient with yourself and your partner. It's okay to take a small break when things are getting a bit more overwhelming. You don't have to have everything sorted out every time. Silence is sometimes better than saying something that you might have to regret later!
- Let him know you are there. As you have mentioned that some external issues are also affecting him, he might be finding it even more difficult to navigate through all these issues effectively. Give him the space that he needs, but also let him know that you are there for him if he needs any help with other things that are effecting him, or ask if you can just sit beside him without saying anything to show him your presence and assure him that he has you back even if you guys are having a temporary fight.
- Be Optimistic. It may not sound like a good advice during this time, but I guess it's good that your partner is trying to get his mind cleared rather than messing things up even more.
- Take it as an opportunity to engage more with yourself. Do things that you have been putting off from a long time, perhaps because of your partner. Spend more time with your friends. Do what you love to do. Engage in some self-care practices. A good time to introspect or maybe meditate or try something new.
- Communicate. After this matter settles down, have a real conversation & know more about each other including things that helps you cope, things that pisses you off, things that helps you to relax, etc. and try to find out how you can better help each other the next time such situation occurs. You can also ask about how he felt during that one week period, if it feels okay to ask so.
- Embrace your journey. Arguments are a part of any relationship. Embrace each phase of your relationship, as it comes with yet another opportunity to have a deeper understanding, further strengthening the bond that you share with your partner and yourself!
This is how I see the best way to navigate through this situation. It differs with every person as these things are really very subjective. You are the expert on you. I hope this post be useful for you as well as for others, if someone is reading this. I wish the best for everyone! Take care🌸
P.S. Sorry for such a long answer. Thank you for reading it :)