What is what to do when your friends with benefits ignores you?

When a friends-with-benefits (FWB) situation becomes strained due to being ignored, it's crucial to understand the dynamic and manage expectations realistically. Here's a breakdown of possible actions:

• Assess the Situation: Before reacting, consider the potential reasons for the sudden%20silence. Are they genuinely busy, or is there a deeper issue? Could they be pulling back emotionally? Maybe they've met someone else. Try to gauge if this is a temporary blip or a more significant shift in the arrangement.

• Communicate Directly: Instead of letting anxiety build, a direct but non-demanding approach is best. A simple message like "Hey, just checking in. Everything okay?" opens the door for them to explain their lack%20of%20communication without putting them on the defensive.

• Respect Their Space: If they don't respond immediately or offer a vague explanation, avoid bombarding them with messages. Give them space to respond on their own terms. Pushing for attention can backfire and make them pull away further.

• Re-evaluate the Arrangement: Their silence might indicate they want to end the FWB arrangement. Be prepared to accept that possibility. Reflect on whether this dynamic is still serving your needs and emotional well-being. Are you becoming more emotionally invested than they are? It might be time to consider ending the FWB%20relationship to protect yourself.

• Establish Boundaries: If you choose to address the issue, it's an opportunity to re-establish or clarify boundaries. What level of communication is acceptable to you? What are your expectations regarding availability and frequency of contact? Clear boundaries are essential for maintaining a healthy FWB relationship, or for a clean break.

• Focus on Yourself: Regardless of their reasons, their behavior is ultimately out of your control. Shift your focus back to your own life, interests, and other relationships. This not only takes your mind off the situation but also reinforces your self-worth and independence. Don't let the actions%20of%20others define your happiness.

• Be Prepared to Move On: If the silence continues, if their explanation is unsatisfying, or if you're no longer comfortable with the situation, be prepared to end the FWB arrangement. Sometimes, the best course of action is to move%20on and find a relationship that better meets your needs.