Running Into The Ex and Their New Partner

The last thing anyone wants to see is their Ex and their new partner. Unfortunately it’s sometimes unavoidable. That knot in your stomach every time you run into them, trying not to make it look like you’re affected when you see them. And pretending to be super happy and not uncomfortable at all. The best thing I can think of to do is to put on that “fake nice” smile and small talk, then go and cry later, if you need to. Even if you’re the one who broke up with them, it’s still awkward. It’s hard to feel confident sometimes and give yourself validation and acceptance, but the more you focus on yourself and less on them, the better you’ll feel. Feeling happy that you’re no longer with someone who wasn’t the right person for you, for whatever reason that is. I used to give myself these “self talks” when I was in high school and college after being rejected by a guy. I’d say to myself “why would I want to be with someone that doesn’t want to be with me?”. I know that’s easier said than done, but if you think about it, it makes sense. Also, accepting and realizing that the new person they are with is the better fit for them and that gives you the space and the freedom to be happy alone or to find the right fit for yourself later on. It’s always good to remind yourself that you can never be happy with anyone else unless you are happy with yourself. Don’t go down that rabbit hole of comparing yourself to her/him or questioning why he/she picked him/her over you. Don’t go there! Redirect and focus on your strengths and qualities you can bring to the table, for yourself. Think about how “strong” you look by always being alone whenever you run into them, that you don’t need anyone to be happy and free.