Elliott, author of the book Getting Past Your Breakup. Her general recommendation is to wait at least six months before thinking about a friendship, though the amount of time may vary depending on the couple, the seriousness of the prior relationship and how it ended.

Why is it hard to be friends after a relationship?

There are four major reasons behind why people choose to stay friends: security, practical reasons, civility, and unresolved attraction. People who still had unresolved romantic desires were less likely to feel secure and happy in a friendship with their ex, the study found.

How do you go back to being friends after a relationship?

5 Ways To Actually Stay Friends After A BreakupHave an honest conversation. Know the boundaries. Ignore other people who tell you its wrong. Take it slow. Be realistic about whats involved and know that it might not work. 21 Reasons Why A Relationship Can Never Replace Your Best Friend.8 Aug 2017

Can you still be friends after a breakup?

Remaining friends after a breakup isnt always easy, but if you both truly want it and are willing to handle things carefully, it can be done. Just be sure its what you really want so no one ends up even more hurt by being broken up with twice — romantically and platonically.

Can a couple go back to being friends?

“Many relationships actually started as friendships. Perhaps the romantic relationship didnt work out, but if you started as friends, it might work to go back to being just friends. Always take some time apart to get over the lingering romantic attachment, though,” says Gordon. “Take as much time as you need.”

Why does he want to be friends after a breakup?

There are four main reasons, Rebecca Griffith and her colleagues found, why exes feel compelled to maintain a friendship or to suggest doing so: for civility (i.e., I want this breakup to hurt less than it will otherwise), for reasons relating to unresolved romantic desires (I want to see other people but keep you