I don’t know what a “break” is. I don’t know the difference between a “break” and a “break-up.” To me, both are equally serious. A break is a really, really bad thing. I doubt that many relationships survive a break. I don’t know why people suggest breaks. Maybe it’s just a way to break up without having to actually say that’s what is going on.
I’ve had fights with girlfriends and I’ve been through times when I didn’t know what was going to happen, but no one ever called it a break. It was never clear what was going on. If they had been kind enough to call it a break, it would have been something of a relief, although I probably would have been tortured about whether the break would be over or whether it would become permanent. I would hate not having any power over what happens to the relationship.
In a case like that, it would all depend on what I wanted. If I was totally in love with the girl, then no one else would interest me and I’d be in agony until she decided to tell me what was going on with her. It is the most horrible thing, because all I want to do is to talk to her—in the most desperate way—and she doesn’t want to hear from me.
If I had the presence of mind to go to a party and hit on some other girl and take her home, then I’d do it. It simply isn’t right to be treated that way. Having a thing with someone else would help me get through the torture of the break (up). But I would never have that kind of presence of mind because when I fall in love, I can’t let go without a lot of time and pain.
The fact that you can even ask this question suggests to me that your girl friend really doesn’t matter that much to you. Maybe that’s why she decided to take a break. You aren’t that into her.
If that’s the case, I’d say go ahead. If you find someone who wants your body, let her have it. More power to you. You don’t have much you need to fight for, so why not?