Can you really be friends with an ex?

Yes, it’s absolutely possible to be friends with your ex. That said, being friends with an ex can sometimes make it harder to successfully move on from the relationship if there are still lingering romantic feelings for each other or if tension arises when you both start dating other people.

Is it normal to keep in contact with your ex?

The only motive for interacting with an ex that was associated with problems in the current relationship was thinking of the ex as a backup partner. This research shows that maintaining contact with exes is pretty common, but whether it indicates a problem with your current relationship most likely depends on why you keep in touch.

Why do people keep in touch with their exes?

The researchers also asked participants to rate how well each of four different motives described their reasons for communicating with their ex: Your friendship with your ex is strong and rewarding. Your ex is seen as a possible “backup” if the current relationship fails. Your ex is still part of your larger group of friends.

Should you try a friendship with your ex?

Studies suggest that couples who remain in contact for the same reasons — whether those are pragmatic or sentimental — are more likely to have successful friendships, while staying in touch because of unresolved romantic desires is a predictor of negative outcomes. If you decide to try a friendship with an ex, Sussman suggests taking a break first.

Why is my ex not trying to talk to me anymore?

If your ex is not trying to contact you, chances are they don’t want communication or are ready to talk yet. In this case, you should let take the time you need to heal and allow your ex to do the same. If your relationship did not end on good terms, you may be setting yourself up to be hurt again by reaching out to talk to your ex.