It is a question many of us have asked ourselves at some point. Can you truly stay friends with someone you once loved Someone who once knew your secrets your laugh your worst days and your best moments
When a romantic relationship ends it does not always mean the connection disappears. For some people there is still care mutual respect and even a sense of comfort in having that person remain in their life in some way.
But does that mean friendship is possible Or is it just another way of holding on
Why We Might Want to Stay Friends
Sometimes the end of a relationship is not full of drama. Maybe it ended because of timing distance or misaligned goals. Maybe you still genuinely like each other just not in a romantic way. The idea of completely removing someone from your life can feel extreme especially if they were once your closest companion.
There is also the feeling of safety. You already know them. You have history. They have seen you in your messy and your magic. And in a world where connection is not always easy to find it is understandable to want to keep that person around even if the dynamic has changed.
The Lines Can Get Blurry
Here is where it gets complicated.
What happens when one of you starts dating someone new
What if one person still has feelings
What if those late night texts or check ins start to feel like something more
It is easy to tell yourself it is innocent. That you are just being supportive. But emotional boundaries with an ex can be fragile especially when healing is still happening.
What starts as friendship can quickly become confusion.
What Does Real Friendship with an Ex Look Like
It is possible for some people. But it takes emotional maturity clear boundaries and time.
Real friendship means:
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No hidden hopes of getting back together
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Respecting each other’s new relationships
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Letting go of the intimacy that once existed
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A shared understanding of what the friendship is and what it is not
It also means being honest with yourself. If being around them brings more pain than peace if you constantly compare them to new partners or if you find yourself rehashing old memories hoping for a different outcome then maybe friendship is not what you really need.
When It Is Time to Let Go Completely
Letting go does not mean the love you shared was not real. It means you are choosing your healing. Your growth. Your peace.
Some chapters are meant to end fully. And that is okay.
You are allowed to choose space over connection. You are allowed to move forward without carrying the past into every new beginning.
So Can We Really Be Friends with an Ex
The answer is not the same for everyone. For some yes. For others no. And for many the answer changes over time.
What matters most is honesty. With yourself and with them.
Tell Us Your Story
Have you stayed friends with an ex
Was it comforting complicated or did it cross boundaries
Or did you have to walk away to fully heal
We would love to hear your story. Use our anonymous form here to share your experience or ask a question.
Because your truth might be exactly what someone else needs to read.
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With love
Whimsical Edit
