Breakup

Do You Really Miss Your Ex? What You Might Actually Be Feeling & What To Do About It

It's natural to miss your ex after a breakup, but it's important to remember that these feelings don't necessarily mean you want to get back together with them. It's possible that you're just feeling nostalgic or lonely. It's important to give yourself time to heal and move on, rather than trying to revisit a past relationship that may not be healthy for you. It's also possible that you're not really looking to rekindle things with your ex, but rather just experiencing normal emotions after a breakup. Take some time to reflect on your true feelings and give yourself the space to move on.

Advertisement

1. You Miss The Girl You Used To Be

It's normal to miss the feelings of carefree passion that you experienced while in a relationship, but it's important to remember that you don't need a man to bring those feelings back. You have the power to work on yourself and cultivate those positive emotions within yourself. Instead of focusing on getting your ex back, try putting yourself at the top of your priority list and working on "Project Me." Invest in your own growth and happiness, and you'll be able to find joy and fulfillment on your own.

Advertisement

2. You Want To Feel The Spark

The spark is often talked about as a special and exciting feeling when you're with someone. It can be tempting to try to reconnect with an ex in an effort to reignite this feeling, but it's important to remember that being with someone who makes you unhappy is not worth it. Instead, try to find the spark with someone new or find ways to feel excited and alive by doing activities and hobbies that you love. Remember, you are in charge of your own happiness and it's okay to prioritize your own well-being.

Advertisement

3. You Want To Feel Loved

It's natural to want to feel loved and valued, but reaching out to an ex out of a sense of nostalgia may not be the best way to achieve this. Instead of trying to reconnect with an ex, try finding other ways to feel loved and valued. Spend time with friends and family who care about you and make an effort to practice self-love. Remember, you are worthy of love and it's important to prioritize your own well-being. Surrounding yourself with supportive and caring people and learning to love yourself can be incredibly fulfilling and help you feel more confident and content.

Advertisement

4. You Want The Inspiration He Brought You

It's important to remember that even though a relationship with your ex has ended, that doesn't mean that the positive qualities or traits that you gained from being with them have to go away as well. Reflect on what your ex brought to your life during the good times and try to hold onto those things that were meaningful to you. Remember, you are in control of your own life and you have the power to choose how you want to be. You don't need anyone's permission to be the best version of yourself and it's important to keep growing and evolving as an individual.

Advertisement

5. You Want To Feel Lust For Life

The feeling of being deeply in love with life and eager to wake up each day is wonderful. While it may be tied to a past relationship, you can still find it by focusing on things that bring you joy and excitement, such as old hobbies or passions that you have let go dormant.

6. You Miss His Friendship

It's understandable to miss the friendship with your ex if you were close as friends as well as partners. However, it may not always be feasible to remain friends with an ex, especially if there are negative feelings or unresolved issues between you. Instead, try to expand your social circle and meet new people. This can help to bring new energy and excitement into your life.

Advertisement

7. You Want To Escape Your Life

It's common to sometimes feel overwhelmed by the demands and stresses of life and want to escape from them. If your relationship with your ex provided a distraction or escape, you may be thinking about him because you want to take a break from your daily routine. Consider taking a long-planned vacation or trying something new, such as a new hobby. You could also mix things up by changing your appearance, like getting a new haircut or hair color. These things can help you feel rejuvenated and refreshed.

Advertisement

8. You're Bored

It's possible that you miss the drama and excitement that your ex brought to your life because it kept things from feeling dull or mundane. However, it's important to remember that this type of drama and excitement can be draining and exhausting. Instead of seeking out drama and chaos, try finding ways to challenge yourself and push your boundaries in a healthy way. This can provide a sense of excitement and adrenaline without the negative consequences.

Advertisement

9. You Want To Work Towards Something

If you and your ex were together for a while and had shared goals and plans for the future, it's understandable that you may miss the feeling of working towards something together. However, now is the time to focus on your own goals and aspirations, and take steps to make them a reality. Don't let the fact that you and your ex won't be achieving these goals together hold you back. Instead, use this as an opportunity to determine what you truly want out of life and take control of your own path.

Advertisement

10. You Miss Great Sex

If you and your ex had a great sexual connection and you still find yourself attracted to him, it might be tempting to consider returning to him for casual encounters. However, this can often lead to complicated or messy situations. Instead of involving your ex, try exploring other options for satisfying your sexual needs. This could include seeking out new partners or indulging in self-exploration. There are many options available, and it's important to prioritize your own well-being and happiness rather than relying on an ex who may not be healthy for you.

Advertisement

11. You Want To Feel Hope For The Future

Being in a relationship with an amazing partner can often have a positive impact on your mood and outlook on life. When that relationship ends, it can be difficult to adjust and you may feel down. Instead of looking to your ex as the source of hope and positivity in your life, try to create it for yourself. There are many things to be excited about and to look forward to in your own life that doesn't depend on others. Remember, the hope for your future always belongs to you and you have the power to create it for yourself.

Advertisement

Questions To Ask Yourself To Get To The Root Of Your Feelings

1. Are You Being Too Hard On Yourself?

Breakups are never easy and it's common to feel a sense of loss, even if you were the one to initiate the breakup. It can be a major shift to go from having your life intertwined with someone else to being on your own, and it's natural to experience feelings of longing in the aftermath. However, these feelings don't necessarily mean that you miss your ex specifically. It's important to allow yourself time to adjust to this new dynamic and to take care of yourself during this difficult time.

Advertisement

2. Are You Missing A Person Or Missing A Status?

After a breakup, it's common to experience a range of emotions, including pain, anger, sadness, curiosity, loneliness, and even a sense of liberation. You may also feel like someone is missing from your life. It's important to try to understand what you are feeling and whether you are missing your ex specifically or just the relationship dynamic. It's natural to miss certain aspects of your ex or the relationship, but it's important to recognize that missing a person is not the same as missing the feelings that you had with that person.

Advertisement

3. Why Did The Relationship Really End?

Every breakup occurs for a reason, and it's important to remember the factors that contributed to the end of your relationship. Were there fundamental incompatibilities that made it difficult to continue? Did your goals or values differ significantly? Did one of you lose the ability to make the other happy? Did love fade away? Reflecting on these issues can help you determine whether you are romanticizing your ex or overlooking aspects of the relationship that were not healthy or fulfilling.

Advertisement

4. Are You Thinking Of Your Ex In Particular?

When you feel a sense of longing after a breakup, it's important to try to identify what you are missing. Is it specific qualities or behaviors of your ex, or is it more general feelings of connection and affection that you miss? This can be a challenging process, but it's important to be honest with yourself in order to better understand your feelings and move forward in a healthy way.

Advertisement

5. Are You Just Missing What They Were Able To Provide You With?

It's completely normal to want someone to share your life with and to enjoy intimacy and affection. However, it's important to remember that these desires are not necessarily tied to a specific person. If you are unsure whether you are missing your ex or just the companionship that you shared, try to identify what it is that you are truly craving. Is it the specific person of your ex or just the feeling of being close to someone? By understanding your own desires, you can better understand your feelings and move forward in a healthy way.

Advertisement

6. Could You Imagine Being With Someone Else?

One way to determine what it is you are truly craving is to try a thought experiment. Imagine specific moments that you miss sharing with your ex, such as cuddling up to watch a movie or going for a walk together. Now, try to envision doing those same activities with someone else. It doesn't have to be a specific person, just a faceless companion. Notice how open your body and mind are to the idea of being with someone other than your ex. This can give you insight into whether you are missing your ex specifically or just the feelings of connection and intimacy that you shared.

Advertisement

7. How Does Flirting Feel?

If you are still healing from your breakup, it may be too soon to engage in flirting with other people. However, if you feel comfortable and ready to explore this possibility, it can be a helpful way to gain insight into your feelings. If flirting feels exciting and enjoyable, it could be a sign that you are missing the feelings of connection and intimacy that come from interacting with others. It's important to remember that flirting does not necessarily mean you have to jump into a new relationship right away. However, if you feel scared, uncomfortable, or guilty, it may be a sign that you are still emotionally invested in your ex.

Advertisement

8. If You're In Contact With Your Ex, How Does It Feel?

Maintaining contact with your ex after a breakup can be a helpful way to gain insight into your feelings and determine what you are missing. However, it's important to be cautious and avoid excessive contact, as this can prolong feelings of attachment and prevent a clean break. With occasional contact, you can see how you feel with and without your ex and use this as a way to determine whether you are missing the person or the relationship itself. After contact, pay attention to your emotions and try to identify whether you feel a sense of yearning or relief, and whether you believe the breakup was necessary or not. This can help you understand what it is you truly miss.

Advertisement

How To Stop Missing Them And Start Moving On

1. Block Them On Facebook

It can be tempting to stay connected to your ex on social media, but it can also be difficult to see their posts and updates without feeling emotional. If you are feeling particularly vulnerable or emotional, it may be helpful to mute their account temporarily to give yourself some space. This can help to reduce temptation to reach out or make irrational decisions. If you still have occasional contact with your ex, it's okay to check in and see how they are doing, but try to avoid bringing up the past or engaging in discussions that may stir up strong emotions. It's important to prioritize your own well-being and give yourself time to heal.

Advertisement

2. Think About What You Liked About The Relationship

Instead of focusing on your ex as a person, try to identify specific qualities or attributes that you enjoyed or appreciated about them. Did they make you feel cared for or secure? Are these things that you are missing from other people in your life? It could be that you are longing for a deeper connection with a friend or simply feeling uncertain or scared. In these cases, it can be helpful to try to address your general needs in other ways, such as reaching out to friends or engaging in activities that make you feel comforted or secure.

Advertisement

3. Reach Out Only If You Think It Would Benefit Your Mental Health

Mental health is an important concern, and it's common to feel overwhelmed or out of control at times. If you are struggling with anxiety or other mental health issues, it can be helpful to reach out to your ex if you feel it would be beneficial. Maybe you are concerned about their well-being or just want to check in and see how they are doing. It's important to remember that the dynamic of your relationship may have changed since the breakup, and it's not necessarily a sign that you are getting back together. Just expect a casual response and try to focus on taking care of yourself and your own well-being.

Advertisement

4. Write A Letter To A Friend

Writing letters can be a therapeutic and enjoyable way to stay occupied and feel connected to others. It can also be a thoughtful and appreciated gesture for the person receiving the letter. If you are struggling after a breakup and want to talk about your feelings with someone who knows you well and has your best interests at heart, consider writing to a trusted friend who is familiar with your ex and the details of your relationship. This can be a helpful outlet for expressing your emotions and seeking support during a difficult time.

Advertisement

5. Try Online Dating

Online dating can be a great way to meet new people and potentially find love, even during times of social distancing. If you are feeling a little intimidated by the process, it can be helpful to remember that all communication can be done from the safety of your own home. You can learn a lot about someone through online communication such as text or video calls, and even if you miss your ex, the excitement and potential of meeting someone new can help you move forward. Don't be afraid to give online dating a try and see where it leads.

Advertisement

6. If They Were Really A Good Person, Don't Be Afraid To Apologize

If you know that the breakup was your fault and you are having trouble moving on, it's important to remember that the goal should not be to try to win your ex back. That decision is up to them. Instead, your focus should be on apologizing and expressing remorse for your actions. It's okay to reach out and apologize, even if you don't expect forgiveness or a response. This can be a way to find closure and let your ex know that you regret how things ended. It's important to avoid turning the apology into an argument or trying to rehash the past, and just focus on expressing your remorse.

Advertisement

7. Focus Your Energy On A Celebrity Crush

Having a celebrity crush can be a fun and harmless way to distract yourself and feel a sense of connection or admiration. Since it's unlikely that you will actually pursue a relationship with a celebrity, it can be a safe way to express your feelings without worrying about getting hurt. Celebrity crushes can serve as a placeholder for when you are ready to start a new relationship, and can provide a sense of excitement and enjoyment in the meantime. Just remember that celebrities are human too and can get caught up in scandals or disappointments, so try not to get too invested in the fantasy.

Advertisement

8. Don't Rule Out Therapy

If you find that you are constantly thinking about your ex and it is affecting your daily life, it may be helpful to seek support from a trusted friend or professional. It's possible that there are underlying issues or unresolved emotions that are contributing to your difficulty moving on. Don't be afraid to reach out for help and seek guidance in dealing with these feelings. Working on self-improvement and personal growth can be a positive and productive way to use this time at home, and seeking support is a strong and admirable step toward healing and moving forward.

Advertisement