What Makes Exes Come Back?

Coach Lee
4 min readJan 10, 2024

Reconciliation after a breakup is a multifaceted process.

What makes exes come back?

The journey of re-attracting an ex-partner involves a deep understanding of the dynamics at play.

Here are the key elements that contribute to the possibility of an ex returning.

Rebuilding Attraction: The cornerstone of any romantic reunion is the resurgence of attraction.

In most relationships, the falling of attraction is the primary cause of a split.

This concept is simple yet profound: when you are deeply attracted to someone, there’s little that can keep you away.

Conversely, when attraction diminishes, even minor obstacles can seem insurmountable.

For those in long-distance breakups, the initial willingness to travel great distances or overcome logistical challenges is a testament to high attraction levels.

However, as attraction fades, so does the willingness to make these efforts.

Progression through No Contact Stages: Individuals typically progress through various emotional stages after a breakup, particularly when the ‘no contact rule’ is applied.

These stages include relief, curiosity, concern, and eventual contact.

Initially, there’s a sense of relief at having ended the relationship for the one who initiated the breakup.

However, as time passes, this relief turns into curiosity about their former partner’s life.

This curiosity can then morph into concern, and eventually, the desire for contact re-emerges.

It’s a journey of realization and reflection, where the person begins to see the breakup and the relationship in a new light.

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Reduction of Defensiveness: For an ex to consider returning, they must move past defensiveness.

This transition happens when there’s nothing left to defend.

Constant pursuit, pleading, or discussing the relationship by the one who was left only serves to fortify an ex’s defensive stance.

As they spend time away from the relationship, without the pressure of being pursued, their defensiveness can diminish.

This reduction in defensiveness opens the door to reflection and reconsideration.

Fear of Losing You: An integral part of the reconciliation process is your ex realizing the risk of losing you.

Initially, they might not be concerned about this loss.

However, as they progress through the stages of no contact, the realization that they could permanently lose you becomes more pronounced.

This fear can be a powerful motivator for reconsideration.

Demonstrating your strength and independence by staying away, not pursuing them, and living your life can be incredibly attractive and can trigger this fear of loss in your ex.

Mystery and Intimacy: The concept of mystery plays a crucial role in re-attracting an ex.

During the relationship, there was a continuous exchange of information and emotions, contributing to a sense of intimacy.

In contrast, the absence of communication post-breakup creates a mystery.

Your ex is left wondering about your life, your feelings, and your actions.

This mystery can lead to curiosity, which, in turn, can rekindle attraction.

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Practical Considerations for Long-Distance Relationships: In long-distance relationships, the challenges are magnified.

The effort required to maintain such relationships can, over time, erode attraction.

Thus, demonstrating a willingness to bridge the physical gap becomes essential while the relationship is still enthusiastically intact.

If you’re considering moving closer to your ex or vice versa, it’s important to have a concrete plan.

A vague promise of ‘someday’ is not enough to fend off the fall off of attraction that is typical in long-distance relationships.

Detailing how and when you plan to eliminate the distance can provide a tangible goal for both parties to work towards.

The Importance of Independence and Personal Growth: In the aftermath of a breakup, focusing on your personal growth and independence is important.

This focus not only aids in your recovery but also makes you more attractive to your ex.

A person who is emotionally stable and growing is inherently more appealing.

This growth can indirectly influence your ex’s perception of you and can play a role in their decision to return.

Navigating the Emotional Journey: The emotional journey an ex-partner goes through after a breakup is complex.

From relief to curiosity, and from fear to realization, each stage brings its challenges and revelations.

Understanding this journey can provide insights into their mindset and help you tailor your approach accordingly.

Effective Communication Post-Breakup: If and when communication resumes with your ex, it’s crucial to engage in effective, non-confrontational dialogue.

This approach helps maintain the reduced defensiveness and can foster a positive environment for reconciliation.

Discussions should be forward-looking, focusing on potential improvements and mutual growth, rather than dwelling on past issues.

Seeking Professional Guidance: In some cases, seeking the advice of a relationship coach can provide valuable insights.

These professionals can offer objective advice and strategies tailored to your specific situation, increasing the chances of a successful reconciliation.

In conclusion, rekindling a relationship with an ex involves a delicate balance of emotional intelligence, patience, and strategic thinking.

Each relationship is unique, and thus, the approach to reconciliation must be customized to fit the specific dynamics at play.

Remember, while the goal is to reunite, focusing on your personal growth and well-being should always remain a priority.

Get my Emergency Breakup Kit to get your ex back!

Sincerely,

Coach Lee

Originally published at https://myexbackcoach.com on January 10, 2024.

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Coach Lee

Coach Lee helps people get their ex back after breakups and save marriages from divorce. See https://MyExBackCoach.com and https://YouTube.com/@realcoachlee