He's running - don't chase.

He just dropped a bomb - he wants a "break".

A break very often leads to a break UP. Don't kid yourself - your relationship is on the rocks.

This is the point where we freak out and do all the wrong things. I know, I've been there; and so have you. We've all blundered, and sometimes it's cost us a relationship or two. (Or more.) How can we keep from repeating the deadly cycle? Let's look at the biggest break-up no-no's and how to avoid them.

When he asks for a break (or demands one):

No contact. He wants space. Let him have it. Don't call, text, e-mail, or Facebook him. You'll feel an almost irresistible urge to reach out; refrain. He thinks you're smothering him. Do not give him an excuse to keep believing that. If HE initiates contact, respond; otherwise don't hunt him down.

Stay close to friends. Don't withdraw from friends and family. You'll want to be alone, but this is another urge to resist. Be social. Go out, have fun, keep your mind off things. And speaking of your mind ...

Don't obsess. Spending hour upon hour re-thinking every detail of your relationship is counterproductive. Don't let yourself cry for hours, either. It won't help anything. If you pray, pray about it; then get on with your life. That's what HE'S doing!!

Understand fate. If you're supposed to be with him, it will work out. If not, there is someone better out there. Trust me on this - I was convinced that Asshole Ex was my soulmate. HA!! My husband is a million times better than Asshole Ex.

Keep your options open. If you're on a break (but NOT broken up), you should consider dating around a bit. This isn't for everyone; but if you and your boyfriend are having doubts that you're truly meant to be, your true love may still be out there looking for you!

But not TOO open. Until/unless you and your sweetie-pie are quits for good, do NOT be intimate with anyone else. This only creates confusion and it's not fair to anyone involved. Sex always complicates things. ALWAYS.

Don't plan your life around him. Again with fate - if it's meant to be, it will. Otherwise do not plan your future around a boyfriend who won't commit. You'll end up disappointed.

Be brutally honest. Don't lie to yourself, and don't make excuses for him. Oh, he just needs time; he just needs space; I know in my heart we're soulmates; I know he loves me ... you don't know anything right now. He's in emotional limbo, and he's left you there, too. Until and unless he marries you, you do NOT "know" that he's it.