The Language of Love: How Miscommunication Leads to Complication

7. He says: “I just need a little space.  Maybe we should take a break.”

You hear: “This space will precede my break-up with you.  I’m just too scared of how you’ll react if I end things.” OR “I don’t want to be alone so I’ll keep you in close range until I can find someone better.”

He means: “I’m falling for you, but these emotions are rushing me at a faster pace than I can handle.  I need some time to re-evaluate exactly what I’m getting into.”

While the need for breathing room could signal an impending break up, women sometimes falsely assume the worst.  Men aren’t the greatest at deciphering emotions and feelings of attachment and affection can make them feel out of control and scared.  When confronted with these emotions, their instinct is to quickly detach.  They can be kind of obsessed with control, and falling in love is often something beyond control.  They compartmentalize and organize their feelings and focus on issues one at a time. A woman’s instinct is to fix things. We like to multi-task and keep everyone close and connected.  When we hear of problems our impulse is to find a solution.  Unfortunately, men can interpret this as a lack of faith in their ability to handle things.  Give him some space; it could be exactly what you need to become closer.