21 Certain Signs Your Breakup Is Temporary (ex will be back)

Breakups can be heart-wrenching and confusing, leaving us questioning whether the separation is truly permanent. But what are the signs your breakup is not permanent?

Signs your breakup is only temporary can include:

• 1. Continued Communication: If you and your ex are still in regular contact, it’s a sign that the breakup may not be permanent.
• 2. Emotional Connection: If you both still share deep emotional bonds and care for each other, there’s a chance for reconciliation.
• 3. Mutual Friends: If you’re both still connected to mutual friends who believe in the possibility of a reunion, it could indicate a temporary breakup.
• 4. Discussing the Future: If you both talk about future plans together or express a desire to work things out, it suggests the breakup may not be permanent.
• 5. Reminiscing and Nostalgia: If you frequently reminisce about the good times you shared or express nostalgia for your relationship, it signifies a potential chance for reconciliation.
• 6. Continued Intimacy: If you still engage in physical intimacy or have a strong desire to be close to each other, it’s a sign that the breakup may not be permanent.
• 7. Seeking Support: If you or your ex seek advice or support from relationship counselors, friends, or family members, it indicates a willingness to work on the relationship.
• 8. Efforts to Resolve Issues: If you both actively work on resolving the issues that led to the breakup, it shows a commitment to making things work.
• 9. Rebuilding Trust: If there are genuine efforts to rebuild trust, such as being honest, transparent, and forgiving, it suggests a potential for a lasting reconciliation.

But those are only 9 of the 21 signs!

The silver lining is that sometimes, breakups are merely temporary pauses in a relationship, providing both parties with the opportunity for growth and self-reflection.

In this blog post, we’ll explore 21 certain signs your breakup is not permanent, suggesting that your breakup might just be a temporary detour on the road to a stronger and healthier relationship.

So hold on to that glimmer of hope for a second chance, and let’s dive in!

Short Summary

• Ongoing communication and emotional connection with your ex can signal the potential for reconciliation.
• Signs of regret, jealousy, reminiscing about the past, and offering support indicate that the breakup may be temporary.
• Assess your feelings before attempting to reconcile. If you choose to do so, take it slow & prioritize open communication & personal growth.

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But for now, let’s review the . . . 

21 Certain Signs Your Breakup Is Temporary

1. Ongoing Communication With Your Ex

One of the clear signs that your breakup might be temporary is ongoing communication with your ex, such as frequent text messages or phone calls.

And I don’t mean asking about bills or shared pets. But if they reach out about personal things, emotional support, etc, that is a sure sign that they feel comfortable with you meeting their emotional needs. They trust you with their emotional health.

This indicates that your ex still has strong feelings for you and enjoys talking or texting with you. It also suggests that they cherish the emotional connection that you two once shared. In this case, these are some signs your breakup may not be permanent.

While it’s essential to be cautious and not misinterpret mixed messages, maintaining open communication is often a good sign that there might be hope for rekindling the relationship.

2. Emotional Connection Remains

An emotional connection is the backbone of a healthy relationship, built on understanding, trust, intimacy, and shared experiences. If your ex still reaches out to you and engages in constructive dialogue, it might be a sign that the broken relationship won’t be forever.

Remember, nurturing an emotional connection means feeling understood and secure, allowing you to express yourself freely without fear or emotional pain. So, if your ex maintains that connection, it could be a promising sign for a second chance.

3. Reminiscing About the Past

Cherishing the memories of the past with your romantic partner is a clear sign that the breakup might not be permanent. If your ex happily reminisces with you, it shows that they still value the bond you shared and are willing to explore the idea of getting back together.

Moreover, reminiscing about the past is a beautiful way to strengthen the emotional connection between you and your ex. So, if you find yourself laughing over old pictures or recounting shared experiences, it may be a strong sign that love is still in the air.

4. They Continue to Offer Emotional Support

If your ex continues to offer emotional support during difficult times, it may indicate that the breakup is only temporary. This shows that they trust you and seek you out as a source of comfort. It’s essential to appreciate these small gestures of kindness as they demonstrate that your ex still cares for you and values the connection you once had.

So, when your ex lends an ear or a shoulder to cry on, it might be a sign that you’re not completely over each other just yet.

5. They Act Jealous if You Date Someone

Jealousy can be an uncomfortable emotion, but if your ex still shows signs of jealousy when they see you with someone else, it could be considered one of the most encouraging signs that the breakup might not be permanent.

I will say though, if you are still hung up on your ex, it’s fine to casually date, but avoid a new relationship until you are fully over them. That’s just not fair to anyone.

While it’s important not to jump to conclusions or play games with your ex’s emotions, this subtle sign might indicate that they still have feelings for you and are not ready to let go of the relationship just yet, especially if she has stayed single.

It’s important to remember that this sign alone is not enough to determine whether or not your ex still has feelings for you.

It’s important to look at the other signs and behaviors they are exhibiting to get a better understanding of their feelings. If your ex is still jealous, it could be a sign that they are jealous.

I still remember my now ex-wife getting jealous AFTER she told me out of the blue she wanted a divorce.

And in that case, she got enraged when I liked a picture of an ex of mine on her Instagram where she AND her husband and kids were all in their Halloween costumes (and no, her costume wasn’t lingerie).

So jealousy could just be a sign she’s crazy and not of her wanting to reconcile.

6. Mentioning Future Plans (with you in it)

Mentioning future plans that include you could be a sign that your ex is open to the possibility of reconciliation. This shows that they are still considering a future together and are not completely ready to move on from the relationship.

If your ex talks about upcoming events or activities that involve both of you, it’s essential to be open and honest about your feelings and intentions. But while it’s possible they just want to be friends, there is also a good chance they are using these events to test the waters for a possible return to a romantic relationship.

It might be the perfect opportunity to discuss the possibility of rekindling your love and building a stronger bond.

7. Signs of Regret from Your Ex

Signs of regret from your ex, such as apologies or admitting mistakes, can indicate that the breakup might be temporary. If your ex expresses remorse and owns up to their past behavior, it demonstrates that they are willing to take responsibility for their actions and make amends.

This willingness to acknowledge and learn from past mistakes is a crucial step towards rebuilding trust and fostering a healthier relationship. So, if your ex shows signs of regret, it might be time to consider giving the relationship another chance.

8. Rekindling of Romance and/or Intimacy

Rekindling romance and intimacy between you and your ex can be a sign that the breakup is not permanent. If you find yourself drawn to each other emotionally or physically, it might indicate that there is still a strong connection between you two.

It’s essential to approach this rekindling carefully and openly communicate your feelings and desires with your ex. By nurturing this connection, you can create a stronger foundation for a potential reconciliation and a more fulfilling relationship.

9. They Confide in You

If your ex confides in you about personal matters, it may indicate that they still trust and value your relationship. That’s a very good thing.

Confidence in someone is a sign of trust and intimacy, indicating that your ex feels comfortable sharing their thoughts, feelings, and experiences with you. They trust you.

This openness and vulnerability can be a powerful indicator that the breakup might be temporary and that your ex may be open to reconciling.

10. You Hear from Mutual Friends That Your Ex is Asking About You

Hearing from mutual friends that your ex is asking about you is one of the biggest signs that they are considering getting back together.

This demonstrates that your ex is still invested in you and is possibly thinking about reconciling. Inquiring about you through a mutual friend or family member suggests that they still have feelings for you and are not yet ready to move on from the relationship.

So, if your friends mention that your ex has been asking about you, it might be time to consider the possibility of rekindling your love.

11. Old Routines and Habits With You Are Still in Place With Your Ex

Old routines and habits with your ex still in place can indicate that the breakup might be temporary. If you and your ex continue to engage in activities or maintain habits that you once shared, it might be a sign that there is still a strong connection between you two.

This familiarity and comfort can serve as a foundation for rebuilding trust and rekindling the relationship. So, if you notice that your ex is still engaging in these familiar patterns, it could be a sign that the breakup is only temporary.

12. Mixed Messages from Your Ex

Mixed messages from your ex, such as hot and cold behavior, can be a sign that they are unsure about the breakup. While it’s essential to be cautious and not misinterpret these mixed signals, they can also be an opportunity to reassess the situation and better understand your ex’s feelings and intentions.

If you’re receiving mixed messages, it’s crucial to communicate openly and honestly about your feelings and expectations to create a positive outcome.

13. Reluctance to Let Go

Reluctance to let go of shared belongings or memories is a clear indication that the breakup might not be permanent. If your ex is still holding on to items that remind them of the relationship, it could be a sign that they are still harboring feelings for you and are not yet ready to move on.

Recognizing this reluctance can provide insight into your ex’s emotional state and potentially serve as a stepping stone towards reconciliation.

14. Mutual Desire for Change

A mutual desire for change and growth in the relationship can be a sign that the breakup is temporary. If both you and your ex are open to making changes and growing together, it could be a sign of hope that the break up is temporary. This could mean that both of you are willing to work on the relationship and that you are both open to reconciliation.

So, if you notice a mutual willingness to change, it might be time to consider giving the relationship another chance.

15. Occasional Hookups

Occasional hookups with your ex can indicate that there are still feelings between you and the breakup might be temporary. While it’s important not to rely solely on physical intimacy as a sign of a potential reconciliation, these casual encounters can serve as a reminder of the connection you once shared.

So, if you find yourself occasionally hooking up, it might be worth considering whether there’s an opportunity to rekindle the relationship.

But I’ll be honest.

After my now ex-wife asked for a divorce in April of 2021, we hooked up a few times prior to the actual divorce, and the last hookup was only about a week before she got with her boyfriend who she had known for years.

So in and of itself, your ex wanting to hook up doesn’t necessarily mean anything.

16. You Are Both Active on Each Other’s Social Media

Being active on each other’s social media platforms and engaging with each other’s posts can be a sign that the breakup is not permanent. This involvement in each other’s online lives demonstrates that you both still care about each other and are interested in staying connected.

So, if you notice that you and your ex are consistently interacting on social media accounts, it might be a sign that there is still hope for your relationship.

17. You Still Attend Some Social Events Together

Attending social events together, even after the breakup, can indicate that there is still a connection between you and your ex. Spending time together in social activities can serve as a reminder of the bond you once shared and potentially pave the way for reconciliation.

So, if you find yourself attending the same events and enjoying each other’s company, it might be worth considering whether your breakup is truly permanent.

18. Openness to Counseling or Therapy

Openness to couples counseling or therapy to work on relationship issues can be a sign that the breakup might be temporary. Seeking professional help, such as from a relationship coach, demonstrates a willingness to address any issues that may have led to the breakup and work towards a healthier relationship.

And if your ex brings up doing counseling together, that’s one of the tell-tale signs they are thinking about reconciling.

So, if you and your ex are open to attending counseling or therapy sessions together, it might be an indication that there is still hope for your relationship.

19. Your Ex Refers to Your Status as Being “On a Break”

If your ex refers to your status as being “on a break” rather than broken up, that’s one of the sure-fire signs that they are considering reconciliation. This terminology suggests that the separation might be one of those temporary breaks and that there is still a chance for the two of you to reconnect.

So, if your ex speaks of your relationship as being on a break, it might be worth exploring the possibility of rekindling your love.

20. Physical touch

Physical touch, such as hugging or holding hands, can be a sign that there is still a connection between you and your ex. These small gestures of affection can serve as a reminder of the bond you once shared and can potentially pave the way for reconciliation.

So, if you notice that you and your ex are still engaging in physical touch, it might be a sign that your ex is having second thoughts.

21. Revisiting Past Places or Activities

Revisiting past places or activities that you enjoyed together can indicate that the breakup might be temporary.

These shared experiences, even if they last just a few minutes, can serve as a reminder of the bond you once shared and potentially pave the way for reconciliation.

So, if you find yourself returning to the places and activities you used to love together, it might be a sign that your relationship is not over yet.

How to Handle Mixed Messages from Your Ex

Handling mixed messages from your ex involves setting boundaries, communicating clearly, and focusing on your own well-being. It’s important to prioritize your own feelings and self-esteem when managing mixed messages from your ex. Be honest with yourself about your intentions and desires, and maintain open communication with your ex to ensure a healthy relationship.

Remember, your personal growth and happiness should always come first.

Learning from Past Mistakes With Your Ex

Learning from past mistakes with your ex can help you both grow and improve the relationship if you decide to reconcile. Reflect on the issues that occurred during the relationship and think about how you can both work together to create a healthier and stronger bond.

By acknowledging and addressing past mistakes, you can build a solid foundation for a successful and loving relationship.

Assessing Your Own Feelings About Reconciliation

Before deciding to try again with your ex, it’s crucial to assess your own feelings about reconciliation. Consider the positive aspects of the relationship and the potential of getting back together. Think about how you feel about the idea of reconciling and if you are ready to move forward with optimism.

Be honest with yourself and determine if the relationship is worth pursuing, or if it’s time to go your separate ways.

Using the No-Contact Rule to Get Your Ex Back

Using the no-contact rule can help you gain clarity and perspective on the relationship, and potentially increase your chances of getting your ex back. By cutting off all contact with your ex, you allow yourself the space and time for personal growth and healing.

This period of self-reflection can ultimately lead to a healthier and happier relationship if you decide to reconcile.

But DO respond quickly if they reach out. And if they do, assume they want to see you and make a date. But until they do, avoid the urge to call, text, or stalk their social media. And certainly don’t like or comment on their social posts or view their Instagram stories since they can see you looked at them.

Now if your ex keeps looking at your Instagram stories or likes or comments on your posts, I would see that as a sign of interest. So while it’s not as strong of a sign as them calling or texting you, I would not ignore it.

Comment back on their comments.

Just be mindful to not go overboard. If they leave a 5-word comment, don’t respond back with 5 paragraphs. Especially if you are the guy, and you got dumped, you don’t want to seem needy, clingy, or desperate.

Reconciliation: Taking It Slow

Taking it slow when reconciling with your ex can help rebuild trust and ensure a stronger foundation for the relationship. By allowing time for both parties to understand each other’s feelings and needs, you create an environment of open communication and mutual respect.

Remember, a healthy relationship is built on trust, understanding, and patience. So take your time and nurture the bond you once shared.

Avoiding Toxic Patterns After Reconciling With Your Ex

Was what you had with your ex a toxic relationship?

Avoiding toxic patterns after reconciling with your ex involves setting boundaries, having better communication, and focusing on personal growth. And it’s key to making the relationship work this time around.

By addressing any issues that may have led to the breakup and committing to making positive changes, you can create a healthier and more fulfilling relationship.

Remember, a strong relationship is built on trust, understanding, and a mutual desire for growth and happiness. A certified relationship coach, or a relationship hero, can help guide you on this journey.

Summary

In conclusion, recognizing the signs of a temporary breakup can provide you with hope and reassurance during a challenging time. By understanding indicators such as ongoing communication, emotional connection, and mutual growth, you can make informed decisions about whether to pursue reconciliation or move forward separately.

At the end of the day, the key to a successful and lasting relationship is open communication, trust, and a commitment to personal growth. By learning from past mistakes, setting boundaries, and focusing on your own well-being, you can create a healthier and more fulfilling relationship with your ex or future partner.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do temporary breakups usually last?

How do you know when you’re fully over a breakup?

Moving on from a breakup takes time and effort, but when you start feeling the signs of healing like having more clarity and accepting your partner’s absence, it is a sign that you are over the breakup.

In an ideal world, you want to get to a place where your ex elicits no emotional response when you think about them. You aren’t sad or missing them, but you also aren’t cursing their name and filled with negative emotions either.

Your feelings about them are neutral.

When you get there you will likely feel empowered to do the things you couldn’t before, such as going to common places again and focusing on yourself instead of your ex-partner.

When you get there, it’s a strong indication you’re fully over a breakup and ready to take on the world again.

What is the 6 month break up rule?

The 6 month break up rule is a guideline for how much time it takes for individuals to heal after breaking up with a long-term partner. In such cases, it suggests that individuals should wait at least 3 months before starting to date again, and for those who had a longer relationship, 6-12 months is recommended.

By allowing oneself adequate time to process the split, it gives the individual a chance to heal properly and make more informed decisions about their next relationship.

What is the last stage of a breakup?

The last stage of a breakup is acceptance: acknowledging that it happened and understanding why. This can be a difficult process, but ultimately a necessary one in order to rebuild self-esteem and move forward with your life in a positive way.

Even though it can be hard, it’s an important step for healing and growth.

What is an emotional connection?

An emotional connection is a strong bond created between two people based on understanding, trust, mutual respect, and feelings of emotional safety. This connection leads to an increased sense of closeness, compassion, and a sense of security that often enhances our relationships with those around us.