Future Directions
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Background
This stage refers to the period in people's lives following separation, when they are either single or in a new but not necessarily permanent relationship and considering their future options.
As with each stage, the context and experience of future directions differs for each person. For those who initiate a separation, it is sometimes a stage that is experienced while they are still in the previous relationship and not in the period after the separation 'event' or crisis.
If a third party is involved, it is the period of time during which the decision to leave one relationship for another is made.
Whatever the circumstances, this stage can be relatively brief or permanent. Some people find comfort in 'keeping their options open' and decide never to commit to another long-term, live-in 'couple' relationship. Others find themselves in this position even though they do not choose it.
This stage requires understanding, change, acceptance, adjustment and learning of new behaviours.