He wants to be with me, but he said he wanted to "stay single for a while." What does that mean?

[Jasmine13mc]

So I won't get into too many details, it would take too much time. So here's quick version of it. Me and this guy have been talking for over two years, however, the first year and half we just developed a friendship, resulting is us becoming best friends. Well then about 5 months or so, we finally opened up to each other about how we felt and well he was already with another girl, so then he later broke up with her. We were still talking, still practically together, well then his ex started playing mind games with him and wanted him back, except then she went and got another boyfriend. So after all that, we said we really did want to try things again. But he keeps saying that he loves me, but it it is meant to happen it will happen and he's just going to let things happen. However, he wants to stay single for a while. He said not because he wants to flirt with other girls, but to rebuild himself after his ex tore him down. So my real question is, how long is staying single for "a while" and do you think he wants to be with me. Thank you!

[doppleganger]

Just give him space and don't try to suffocate him and pressure him it could end badly. I would say in a situation like this get someone else for the mean time and show him what he's missing but that would just show him your just like his ex. Now the shutting people out thing is not good. And things like relationships and love just don't "Happen". When you feel he is ready for it try to take the initiative and let him know your still interested if you are then. But let him make the first move. That will show you he's ready. Remember don't overcrowd him. Best of luck!

[SplashyAxis]

I think that, yes he does want to be with you, but considering what he went through with his ex, he just wants time and space to clear his mind. Just be patient with him and let him overcome his problem.

There's no real time limit on how long people wish to stay single for whatever reason, it depends on the person. Some people take longer than others. One thing I suggest you could do is be the best friend you can possibly be to him, so that when he does eventually decide to start dating again, you'll be the first person he thinks of.

[stercor]

You have to give him some space and time.

However, it seems as though it would be better if you both work on what happened to him and its result.

Shutting people out doesn't seem like a good sign.

What if you have problems in your relationship with him later?

Is he going to clam up?

But, by the same token, you have to respect his wishes now.

It doesn't appear that he's using the time to look around for another girl.