Breakups are tough. One minute, you’re binge-watching shows together, and the next, you’re debating whether to block them or “accidentally” like their Instagram post from 2017. But what if your ex isnât entirely over you?
Sometimes, exes send mixed signalsâliking your posts, showing up where you are, or texting at odd hours. Are they just being friendly, or is there something more? If you’re wondering whether your ex secretly wants you back, this list will help you decode their actions.
Here are 25 telltale signsâsome subtle, some glaringly obviousâthat your ex might still have feelings for you.
1. They Keep âRandomlyâ Texting You
If your ex keeps sliding into your DMs with âHey, just saw this meme and thought of you,â itâs probably not random. Theyâre looking for an excuse to talk. Casual check-ins often mean theyâre testing the waters to see if youâre still interested.
Pro Tip: If theyâre consistently reaching out, especially late at night, they might be reminiscing about your relationship.
2. They Bring Up Inside Jokes
Remember that time you both laughed so hard at an awful movie? If they keep referencing old jokes or shared memories, itâs a clear sign they miss the connection.
3. They Havenât Moved On (Or They Jump Into a Rebound)
If your ex is still single months later or dating someone who suspiciously looks like you, they might not be over you. On the flip side, if they rushed into a rebound relationship, it could be a distraction from missing you.
Example: Jake broke up with Maya and immediately started dating someone new. But he kept comparing his new girlfriend to Maya, which was a dead giveaway that he wasnât over her.
4. They Get Jealous When You Mention Someone Else
If your ex suddenly gets defensive or tries to downplay your new love interest, they might still have feelings. Jealousy is a strong indicator that they care more than theyâre letting on.
Pro Tip: Notice their body language. A forced smile or a tense reaction when you talk about someone new is a big clue.
5. They Keep Asking Your Friends About You
If your friends keep reporting that your ex is asking about you, chances are they still care. Whether itâs a casual âHowâs Alex doing?â or full-on investigation mode, it means youâre still on their mind.
6. They Like (or Comment on) Your Old Social Media Posts
If they suddenly start liking pictures from two years ago, theyâre either reminiscing or just got caught in a deep scroll. Either way, it means theyâve been thinking about you.
7. They Show Up Where You Are
You havenât seen them in months, but now they ârandomlyâ appear at your favorite coffee shop? Coincidence? Probably not. If they suddenly start showing up at places you frequent, theyâre hoping for a casual run-in.
Example: Sarah noticed her ex, Liam, started going to her gym, even though he used to hate working out. Suspicious? Absolutely.
8. They Get Nostalgic About the Relationship
If they start saying things like âRemember when we used toâŚ?â or âI really miss those late-night talks,â theyâre not just reminiscingâtheyâre hinting.
9. They Drunk Text or Call You
Alcohol has a way of lowering inhibitions, and if your ex reaches out after a few drinks, it usually means theyâve been thinking about you. Drunk texts like âI miss usâ or âI made a mistakeâ arenât just random.
10. They Make Excuses to See You
Whether itâs returning an old hoodie or asking for help with something trivial, if they keep finding reasons to meet up, they might not be ready to let go.
11. They Keep Tabs on Your Life
If they somehow know about your recent trip or new job without you telling them, theyâre probably keeping an eye on you through mutual friends or social media.
12. They Try to Make You Jealous
If they suddenly start posting pictures with attractive people or bragging about their amazing new life, they might be hoping for a reaction from you.
13. They Apologize for Past Mistakes
If your ex reaches out to apologize for how things ended, it could be genuine growthâor a way to reopen communication. Either way, it shows youâre still on their mind.
14. They Act Nervous or Awkward Around You
If they were over you, theyâd be calm and composed. But if they act weird, fidgety, or overly chatty when they see you, it means theyâre still emotionally invested.
15. They Havenât Returned Your Stuff (or Keep Yours)
Holding onto your sweatshirt or your favorite book isnât just forgetfulnessâitâs sentimental attachment. If they havenât given back your things, they might not be ready to let go.
16. They Reconnect with Your Family or Friends
If theyâre still chatting with your mom or hanging out with your friends, it could be a sign theyâre keeping the door open for a possible reconciliation.
17. They Try to Impress You
If your ex suddenly starts posting gym selfies or talking about their exciting new life, they might be subtly trying to show you what youâre missing.
18. They Reach Out on Special Occasions
A simple âHappy Birthdayâ or âMerry Christmasâ might seem innocent, but if theyâre always reaching out on important dates, theyâre keeping the connection alive.
19. They Openly Admit They Miss You
Sometimes, exes stop playing games and just come out with it: âI miss you.â If they say it directly, believe them.
20. They Ask If Youâre Seeing Someone
If theyâre curious about your love life, itâs because they want to know if they still have a shot.
21. They Seem Happier Around You
If their whole demeanor changes when they see youâbig smiles, extra enthusiasmâthey probably still have feelings.
22. They Initiate Deep Conversations
If theyâre suddenly asking deep, meaningful questions about life, love, and what went wrong, they might be considering a second chance.
23. They Bring Up âWhat Ifâ Scenarios
Sentences like âWhat if we had met at a different time?â or âDo you ever think about us getting back together?â are major clues that theyâre still attached.
24. They Still Call You by Your Pet Name
If they keep using your old nickname, it shows theyâre still emotionally attached.
25. They Tell You They Regret Breaking Up
This oneâs as obvious as it gets. If they say they regret the breakup, they want you backâplain and simple.
Final Thoughts: Should You Get Back Together?
So, your ex might want you back. But the real question isâdo you want them back?
Before jumping back in, ask yourself:
- Have they really changed, or is this just nostalgia?
- Were the reasons for the breakup fixable?
- Do you feel happier with or without them?
If youâre unsure, take your time. And rememberâjust because an ex wants you back doesnât mean you have to say yes. Trust your instincts, focus on your happiness, and do what feels right for you.
Whatever happens, you’ve got this!
