Stage 3: Bargaining

"Maybe we can get them back together? No, maybe Tina Fey can get them back together!"

Says Kubler-Ross:

The third stage involves the hope that the individual can somehow postpone or delay death. Usually, the negotiation for an extended life is made with a higher power in exchange for a reformed lifestyle. Psychologically, the individual is saying, "I understand I will die, but if I could just do something to buy more time..." People facing less serious trauma can bargain or seek to negotiate a compromise. For example "Can we still be friends?.." when facing a break-up. Bargaining rarely provides a sustainable solution, especially if it's a matter of life or death.

In a breakup:

After the anger stage, one will try to plead with their former partner by promising that whatever caused the break up will never happen again. Example: “I can change, please give me a chance."