8 Major Reasons Why You Should Pull Back In A Relationship

Pulling back in a relationship refers to the act of creating space or distance between two people who are romantically involved. It can take many forms, such as reducing the amount of time spent together, being less available, or communicating less frequently.

People may pull back in a relationship for various reasons. Some may do so as a way to protect themselves emotionally, either because they are unsure of their feelings for their partner or because they have been hurt in the past. Others may need more time to focus on personal goals or to deal with issues in their lives that require their attention.

However, it's essential to note that pulling back can also be a sign of trouble in a relationship. It may indicate that one partner is losing interest or that there are unresolved issues that need to be addressed. Therefore, it's crucial to communicate openly and honestly with your partner if you feel like you need to pull back and to discuss your concerns and intentions. Effective communication can help both partners to understand each other's needs and work towards a solution that works for both parties.

# They are not treating you with respect

All individuals, regardless of their background, are entitled to be treated with dignity. If your significant other engages in behaviors such as name-calling, yelling, physical abuse, gaslighting, or fighting, it's evident that they're not treating you with respect.

In such situations, it's advisable to terminate the relationship. However, if you're not prepared to do so yet, it's crucial to pull back. You must value yourself enough to reject your partner's unacceptable behavior and insist on being treated with respect. If this can't be achieved through peaceful communication, it might be time to create some space between you and your partner.

# They are being selfish

Although some individuals may possess a natural tendency towards selfishness, it's not necessary for you to tolerate their self-centeredness. Similarly, while some people may be inclined to be excessively selfless, it's not necessary for you to do the same.

Ideally, both individuals in a relationship should strive to achieve a balance between selflessness and selfishness. While it's crucial to consider your partner's needs, you shouldn't overlook your own needs either. A healthy relationship requires balance.

If you find yourself being too selfless while your partner is overly selfish, it might be time to pull back and re-establish balance. This action can serve as a lesson for your partner that you will no longer tolerate an imbalanced dynamic. Pulling back can help you evaluate if balance can be restored in the relationship.

# They don’t appreciate you

Regrettably, many individuals fail to express gratitude towards their partners, and some may not do so at all. This behavior can be detrimental to a relationship. Therefore, it's crucial for both partners to show their appreciation for each other regularly.

Consider a scenario where you do something kind for someone, but they fail to acknowledge it with a simple "thank you." In such situations, it's natural to feel resentful. Similarly, if you cook dinner for your partner every night without receiving any appreciation, you're essentially being taken for granted. You should be acknowledged for even the smallest things you do.

If your partner is disregarding your efforts and taking you for granted, assuming that you'll cater to their every need, it may be time to pull back in the relationship.

# They are neglecting you

Although many people link abuse with a harmful or unhealthy relationship, being neglected by your partner can also be a cause for concern, prompting you to re-evaluate your relationship dynamics.

If your partner is avoiding communication, spending all their time playing video games, prioritizing their friends over you, or failing to provide love and affection, then this behavior is classified as neglect.

Although neglect isn't as severe as physical abuse, it does qualify as emotional abuse. Neglecting your partner implies withholding their fundamental desires and needs, which is the desire to be in a loving relationship. Therefore, neglect is not a characteristic of a healthy, loving relationship.

How to pull back in a relationship and create some distance

# Think with your head, not your heart

Removing emotion from a situation can be one of the most difficult tasks to achieve. However, if you wish to pull back in a relationship, you need to detach yourself emotionally and think about each scenario rationally. Instead of running after your partner when they ignore you, reciprocate their behavior.

When you stop pursuing them with desperation and view things from a practical standpoint, you make wiser decisions. Before taking action, consider what you want to achieve and how you would react if someone treated you the same way your partner does.

If there weren't any emotions or past experiences involved, would you behave similarly? Ponder your actions internally and ask your emotions to take a back seat temporarily.

# Do what you love often

If you wish to take a step back in a relationship, discover your passions and allow them to occupy your mind. Being too invested in a partnership often results in it becoming the focal point of your life.

This unnecessary emphasis generates drama. Take a break for a day, engage in activities you enjoy, and avoid thoughts about your partner.

If you succeed for one day, consider extending it to two. You'll be amazed at how content you can feel when you stop depending on someone else to provide your happiness.

# Call your partner in crime

If you desire to take a step back, reach out to your trusted friend and plan to take some time off. We all have that one companion who is always there to listen to our complaints and also encourages us to enjoy life.

The most effective approach to withdraw and determine if your relationship is truly what you desire is to recall how to have a good time without the person who is currently making your life complicated.

# Stay busy

To overcome obsession with a relationship that's not going as planned, diverting your attention to other things can be beneficial. Instead of overthinking and feeling anxious about the status of your relationship, try engaging yourself in activities that take your mind off it.

When you find yourself worrying too much about where you stand or where your relationship is heading, try distracting yourself with something that you enjoy doing. You can immerse yourself in a good book, hit the gym, or simply catch up with a friend over dinner. Being with someone else can give you a sense of comfort and safety while you create some distance from your relationship.