Frequent “hello’s” and “hi’s” even if you’ve already seen them once that day. These little greetings can mean that they still want to talk to you, but are too nervous and unsure to take further steps. Reaching out to check in via phone or text often. Commenting or liking your social media posts regularly. Sending you pictures of themselves having fun, looking attractive, or doing something you would enjoy.
Also, if you have an ex who only contacts you once every few months or only after they’ve ended a relationship, then they likely do not care for you and are only seeking attention.
Their feelings may show in their actions. They might laugh louder, smile a bit too much, or their voice might be higher pitched. These are signs, sometimes called micro-expressions, that they may still have feelings that they now can’t control or are trying to hold back. [1] X Research source
Make particular note of the places you find them at that they never went to or enjoyed before you two dated.
See if they have deleted all photos of the two of you. Getting rid of your shared memories is often a major indicator that they really do want to move on.
Say something like “I was at the library the other day and I remembered the time that Dave and I went. How is he doing lately?” If you are very close to them, then you can be blunt. Say “Do you think Dave still has feelings for me?”
If your ex is not particularly flirtatious, this could be an even bigger sign that they still care.
Consider the times that they have brought up trips you went on, inside jokes that you shared, or just fun you had in general.
Notice in particular the times that they bring up who they’re dating completely out of the blue. For instance, if you are talking about homework or your family and they randomly mention their new love interest, then they might be trying to make you jealous. Remember also how they treated their exes. If they often flirted with and kept open communication with their exes, then perhaps they are just possessive and not really intent on getting back together.
Make note also if they make jokes about who you date. They might be trying to tarnish that person’s image in your head so that you find them less desirable. If your ex is shooting dark looks at people who flirt with you or trying to steal you away from spending time with others, this is a sign of possessiveness. They don’t want you to move on without them.
Give yourself and your ex plenty of time to have a long talk. Avoid having the talk when you have a major assignment due or if you have a meeting soon.
Tell them if you’re regretting the breakup and want to get back together again. Provide specific reasons like “I miss you because we had so much fun together” or “I really enjoyed being together. You made me feel such peace. ”
If they expressly say they want to leave the situation, let them go. Don’t try to control them or force them to talk about things they don’t want to discuss.
