Pause and Reflect. Before diving into our advice, take a moment to set your phone aside and focus on the insights we’re about to share.

1. Manage Your Emotions: It’s common to miss the emotions associated with a past relationship, rather than the person themselves. Before you reach out, consider if it’s truly them you miss, or just the feeling of being in love. Impulsively sending a message might lead to disappointment if the old feelings aren’t reciprocated.

2. Think Twice Before Giving Your Ex Satisfaction: Imagine sending a heartfelt message, only to receive no response. This could hurt your pride and leave you feeling down, while possibly boosting your ex’s ego. Consider the impact on both your self-esteem and theirs.

3. Face-to-Face is Best for Important Conversations: If you believe the relationship can be rekindled, a text message might not be enough. A personal conversation is more effective, as it allows you to fully express your emotions, something that can’t be conveyed through text alone.

4. Let Them Make the First Move: If you’re the initiator in the relationship, you might want to write first, but sometimes patience is key. Waiting might reveal their true feelings, especially if the breakup was due to a misunderstanding or a minor argument.

5. Reflect on the Reasons for the Breakup: Remember why the relationship ended. Whether due to hurt feelings, betrayal, or other issues, recalling these reasons can help you resist the urge to contact your ex.

6. Understand Your True Motives: Ask yourself why you want to reach out. If it’s just out of boredom, find new activities or hobbies to occupy your time and mind.

7. Don’t Succumb to Peer Pressure or Loneliness: Feeling lonely, especially when seeing friends in relationships, can be tough. However, it’s important to value your independence and make decisions based on what’s truly best for you, not just to fill a void.

8. Verify Rumors Before Acting: If you hear your ex is still single, take time to confirm this information to avoid awkward situations or misunderstandings.

9. Dismiss Any False Hopes: Don’t expect a person to change their fundamental characteristics or behaviors, including fidelity issues. It’s crucial to be realistic about who they are and whether they can meet your needs and expectations in a relationship.

10. Avoid Selfish Motives: Respect your ex’s boundaries, especially if they’ve chosen to distance themselves. It’s important not to abuse any remaining goodwill by making unreasonable requests or demands.