The School of Life

Can Exes Be Friends?

The School of Life

Summary

The discussion centers on the complexities of transitioning from romantic relationships to friendships after a breakup. It explores the emotional ramifications for both parties involved, highlighting how the promise of friendship can serve as a consolation for the rejected partner while also appealing to the one initiating the breakup. However, this arrangement often leads to feelings of humiliation and guilt, complicating the emotional landscape for both individuals.

The narrative argues that maintaining a friendship post-breakup does not honor the original relationship's significance and can undermine the ideals of true friendship. Instead of fostering a healthy connection, it suggests that a more appropriate response is to establish civil distance, allowing both individuals to cherish the memories of their past relationship without the complications that come from trying to remain friends. This perspective emphasizes the importance of recognizing the distinct nature of love and friendship, advocating for a respectful separation that acknowledges the value of the relationship while allowing both parties to move forward independently.

Show Notes

Partners who break up frequently think that the nicest thing to do is to try to remain good friends. But this nice-sounding gesture frequently brings with it unexpected consequences. Uploaded 12-04-17Enjoying our Youtube videos? Get full access to all our audio content, videos, and thousands of thought-provoking articles, conversation cards and more with The School of Life Subscription: https://t.ly/G7Uq6Be more mindful, present and inspired. Get the best of The School of Life delivered straight to your inbox: https://t.ly/KaXvdFURTHER READING“There are some very strong and socially-endorsed reasons why partners breaking up generally try to remain friends.To the person being – however nicely – rejected, the promise of friendship can feel like an emotionally-reassuring consolation prize. We may no longer be allowed to share their bed, have children with them or end our days in their company, but at least something can be rescued from the ashes: we will continue to be able to call them when we like, share our fears and go to the movies together...”You can read more on this and other subjects here: https://goo.gl/GR45p2MORE SCHOOL OF LIFEWatch more films on RELATIONSHIPS in our playlist: http://bit.ly/TSOLrelationshipsSOCIAL MEDIAFeel free to follow us at the links below:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theschooloflifelondon/ X: https://twitter.com/TheSchoolOfLife Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theschooloflifelondon/ CREDITSProduced in collaboration with:Animation by Martin Staceyhttp://www.martinstacey.co.uk and Neil Evanhttp://www.neilevan.com #TheSchoolOfLife Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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