Please feel free to copy and paste:
- I have a lot going on.
- I’m feeling overwhelmed.
- I’m upset – it has nothing to do with you.
- I’m upset with you because [insert simple summary here].
- I feel like shit.
- I’m busy.
- I’m confused.
- I need a little space.
Or just about any other first sentence or three.
…
Any – or none – of those is just fine with me. As long as you conclude with this:
I’m thinking of you, and I will be silent/you won’t hear from me for a bit. But you will hear from me, I promise, no later than (insert day/time).
Bonus points if you can add:
I promise, I’ll make it up to you then.
And if that time comes and you still aren’t ready, please, feel free to rinse and repeat.