Categories: Relationships

How to Get Over an Ex (and Still Remain Friends)

Breakups suck no matter how you twist it. Whether the relationship came to an end due to distance, difference, or just because it flat out wasn’t working anymore, learning to say goodbye can be really tough. However, just because the relationship could no longer continue with your names drawn inside a heart sketched on your notebook, it doesn’t mean the friendship has to be over.

1. Take your time

Firstly, after a breakup you need to think about your needs above those of the new friendship. Do you need time? Some space? A good cry with your best friend? Maybe you just need to go for a run and sweat it out. Whatever it may be, you need to come first! For some people, jumping right back into being friends and immediately mending the relationship is most important, but for others, taking a step back and gaining some perspective is also good. Do what’s right for the sake of you.

2. Re-establish boundaries

Now that you’ve decided you don’t want to lose this person in your life, even if it means reforming the dynamic of your relationship, you have to be continually honest with yourself. More likely than not, even after a few months have past, you’re not going to want to comfort your ex about their new significant other, and neither will they. Boundaries will have to be redefined and at first that could be a bit confusing. Wait it out, communicate your feelings and make sure you’re both on the same page. Plus, it might even be nicer if you’re not farting in front of each other anymore!

kimblackham.com

3. Stay social media friendly

As time moves on, so will the both of you. With the enterprise that is the digital age, it might be best to avoid posting about your new crush or the cute boy that you’re hanging out with now. Seeing your ex with a new babe isn’t desirable in the first place, and for the sake of their feelings and potentially your own, keep it to yourself (at least for now). There will come a time and place for all the cute postings and daily updates of your new lover.

livesimplylivethriftylivesavvy.com

4. Remember they are JUST your friend

Remember the difference between being together and being just friends. If you’re having an awful day and need someone to talk to, I’m sure they will be there to pick up the phone. But relying on this person also reestablishes a sense of comfortability and dependence that you guys no longer have. Somewhere in between there has to be a drawn line. Don’t get me wrong, if you have wonderful news and know they’d be delighted, feel free to share! Don’t avoid casual conversations and talking occasionally! Just be sure that being friends doesn’t gradually revert back to practically being together; there is a reason you broke up.

See Also

5. Accept your emotions, don’t fight them

Know it’s okay to not always be okay. Getting over your ex while simultaneously trying to remain friends is not, by any means, an easy task. Days will come when all you want is a big hug and to be back where you were. There will, however, also be days when you realize how strong and beautiful and wonderful you are alone. Take it all in stride, it will get easier, and with all the work you’ve put into keeping it up, you’ll get to keep a lifelong friend.

alwaysdolledup.com

Being alone isn’t the easiest thing in the world, but sometimes it’s the best decision. Do what you need to do to heal and recover and it will all work out as it’s supposed to. If you two are meant to be friends, then it will happen, even if it takes some time. Plus, before you know it, you might be taken by surprise by a completely new cutie!

Feature image source:
Courtney Beesch

Courtney is a freshman at LSU but is originally from Phoenix, Arizona. She is double majoring in journalism and political science and is clueless as to where she will end up, but is hopeful for the future. In addition, she enjoys photos of derpy dogs, rainy weather, coffee and writing.

Recent Posts

10 Adorable Gameday Outfits At Ohio State University

Ask any Ohio State student what their favorite day of the week is and their answer will always be “Game…

4 hours ago

10 Ways To Look Like A Million Bucks (Without Breaking The Bank)

We all search for ways to look like a million bucks, but obviously very few of us actually have a…

4 hours ago

Where To Find Cheap MAC Makeup Online

MAC makeup enthusiasts unite! This brand is the trending favorite of YouTubers and makeup fanatics around the globe. Celebrities such as…

8 hours ago

10 Best Places To Cry When You Just Cant Anymore At Clemson University

They say your college days are your best days, but that doesn't mean it's all shits and giggles. If you…

11 hours ago

20 Things No One Tells You About Freshman Year At Lafayette

So, it's official. You've  received your acceptance letter and you are finally enrolled in Lafayette College. In a few short…

11 hours ago

10 Adorable Gameday Outfits at Michigan State University

Even though MSU gamedays seem like years away, there's never enough time to find the perfect outfit, so why not…

11 hours ago