Breakups can be messy and complicated at the same time.
You think you’re over your ex, but then you catch yourself stalking them on Facebook at 2 AM or getting a little too excited when their name pops up in conversation.
Sound familiar? You’re definitely not alone.
Moving on isn’t always as simple as deleting their phone number and burning their picture.
Sometimes those romantic feelings linger, even when you’re trying your hardest to forget.
If you’ve been wondering whether you’re truly over your former flame or just in denial, you’re in the right place.
Let’s look at some telltale signs you’re still in love with your ex and what to do about it.
10 OBVIOUS SIGNS YOU’RE STILL IN LOVE WITH YOUR EX
Getting over an ex is not as easy as people portray it.
One minute you’re blocking them on social media, the next minute you’re crying because you miss what you had.
It’s a rollercoaster ride. But it’s important to ensure you no longer have feelings for your ex before you try getting into a new relationship.
Here are 10 obvious signs you’re still in love with your ex and how to get over them:
1. You feel saddened by the breakup
When you’re truly over someone, you typically feel relief or indifference about the end of the relationship.
But if you’re still harboring feelings for your ex, you might feel unexpectedly sad when you think about the breakup.
You may also catch yourself daydreaming about the good times you shared or feeling a pang of regret when you see something that reminds you of them.
This lingering sadness is often a sign that you haven’t fully moved on emotionally.
It’s normal to feel some sadness after a relationship ends, but if these feelings persist long after the breakup, it could indicate that you’re still in love with your ex.
2. You constantly think about your ex
A big sign you’re not over your ex is that they seem to be living rent-free in your mind.
Do you often think about your ex? Do you frequently replay memories of your time together? You could still be in love with them.
Maybe you’re scrolling through old photos or revisiting places you used to go as a couple.
Even when you’re busy with other tasks, thoughts of your ex keep popping up uninvited.
You might constantly wonder what they’re up to, who they’re with, or if they’re thinking about you too.
Having intrusive thoughts about your former partner is a clear sign that your feelings are still alive.
It’s like your ex has become the default screensaver in your brain, always there when your mind isn’t actively focused on something else.
The worst part is no matter how hard you try to erase them from your memory, they keep haunting you.
Try to get rid of anything that reminds you of your ex and for the love of God, stop stalking them online.
3. You stalk them on social media
Social media has become our go-to window into other people’s lives nowadays.
If you’re constantly checking your ex’s profiles, you’re likely not over them.
You might rationalize it as “just curiosity,” but deep down, you’re seeking connection.
Maybe you’re analyzing their posts for hidden meanings or hoping to catch a glimpse of their daily life.
This behavior isn’t just harmless scrolling–it’s a sign you’re still emotionally invested in them.
You might even feel a pang of jealousy when they post about new experiences or relationships.
True healing often requires distance, both physical and digital.
If you can’t resist the urge to check your ex’s profiles, it might be time to hit that “unfollow” button and focus on your own journey.
4. You’re jealous of their new relationship
One of the most obvious signs you’re still in love with your ex is that you feel envious of their new partner.
If the mere thought of your ex with someone new makes your stomach churn, you’re probably still harboring feelings.
You might find yourself obsessively checking their social media, hoping to catch a glimpse of their new date.
Or maybe you’re subtly fishing for information from mutual friends, trying to gauge how serious this new relationship is.
It’s natural to feel a twinge of jealousy, but if it’s consuming your thoughts and affecting your mood, it’s a clear sign you’re not over your ex.
Try to wish them well in their new relationship and work on finding someone else to date. If you can’t do that yet, you might still be in love.
5. You refuse to get rid of the things that remind you of your ex
Do you still have a box filled with your ex’s belongings tucked away in your closet? This is a major sign you’re not ready to let go.
Maybe you still wear that cozy sweater they gave you or keep their favorite mug in your kitchen cabinet.
These seemingly innocent objects carry emotional weight, serving as tangible links to your past relationship.
You might tell yourself you’re just sentimental, but holding onto these items often indicates unresolved feelings.
Whether it’s photos, gifts, or even that half-empty bottle of their cologne, these physical reminders keep your ex present in your daily life.
By refusing to part with these objects, you’re subconsciously clinging to the connection you once shared, making it harder to move forward and open your heart to new partners.
6. You have fantasies about getting back together
Do you often daydream about a romantic reunion with your ex?
Maybe you imagine bumping into them at your favorite coffee shop, sparks flying as you lock eyes.
Or perhaps you fantasize about dramatically declaring your love and riding off into the sunset together.
These vivid scenarios playing out in your mind are a telltale sign that your heart still yearns for your former flame.
While it’s normal to occasionally reminisce about past relationships, frequent and detailed fantasies about reconciliation suggest unresolved feelings.
If you regularly create these imaginary scenarios, it might be time to examine your emotions.
Are you truly ready to move on, or are you still holding onto hope for a second chance?
7. You get excited each time your ex contacts you
One of the biggest signs you still love your ex is that your heart skips a beat when you see their name pop up on your phone.
Whether it’s a text, call, or social media notification, you can’t help but feel a rush of excitement each time they reach out to you.
You find yourself eagerly anticipating their messages and may even drop everything to respond immediately.
This knee-jerk reaction is a telltale sign that your ex still holds a special place in your heart.
You might rationalize it as just being friendly, but deep down, you know it’s more than that.
The butterflies in your stomach and the smile that creeps across your face are undeniable signs of being in love.
If you’re constantly checking your phone or refreshing your inbox hoping to hear from your ex, it’s time to face the truth that you’re not over them.
8. You go out of your way to help them when they’re in need
When your ex calls for help, do you drop everything and rush to their aid?
If you eagerly offer assistance, even for minor issues, it might be a sign you’re not over them.
Maybe you’re the first person they call when their car breaks down, or you’re always ready to lend an ear during tough times.
This willingness to be their knight in shining armor isn’t just about being nice–it’s often a subconscious attempt to stay connected and prove your value.
By being their go-to support system, you’re keeping the door open for a potential reconciliation.
It’s okay to be kind, but constantly prioritizing your ex’s needs over your own might indicate lingering feelings.
Learn to put yourself first and resist the urge to run to their aid when they call you.
You don’t owe them anything, especially as you’re no longer together.
9. You’ve been unable to love someone else
Have you been struggling to form deep connections with new partners? It’s possible you’re still carrying a torch for your ex.
When your heart is still tied to a past love, it can be challenging to open up to someone new fully.
You might find yourself constantly thinking of your ex while you’re on a date with a potential partner and you may feel a sense of emptiness even when you’re with someone great.
Perhaps you’re subconsciously sabotaging new relationships or simply can’t shake the feeling that no one measures up.
If you’ve been on countless dates but can’t seem to ignite that spark with another person, you may need to consider whether unresolved feelings for your ex are holding you back from moving forward.
10. You compare new partners to your ex
Do you ever catch yourself sizing up your current partner against your former flame? It’s a classic sign you’re not over your ex.
You might find yourself mentally checking how they measure up—their sense of humor, their cooking skills, even the way they kiss.
Maybe you’re constantly noticing little things your new partner does differently.
This comparison game is a sure sign that your ex still occupies a special place in your heart.
It’s natural to compare, but when it becomes a constant habit, it’s time to take a step back and examine your feelings.
Everybody is unique, and it’s unfair to both you and your new partner to live in the shadow of a past relationship.
Conclusion
Are you trying to figure out if you still love your ex?
If you were nodding along to more than a few of these signs, it might be time for some self-reflection.
While it’s totally normal to have lingering feelings for your ex, you don’t have to let them hold you back from moving forward.
It’s up to you to decide whether to give things another shot or finally close that chapter for good.
But at least, be honest with yourself and acknowledge your feelings.
When you stop living in denial, you’ll be able to bravely face your truth and do what needs to be done.
If you’re still in love with your ex but want to move forward with your life, here’s a list of things to do after a breakup to feel better.
Recommended reading:
How To Stop Thinking About Your Ex After A Breakup
7 Genuine Reasons Why You Still Miss Your Ex
8 Tips On How To Stop Missing Your Ex
About The Author
Jennifer Dagi
Jennifer Dagi is happily married to her best friend and the love of her life.
As a relationship coach, she is passionate about helping couples build healthy and happy relationships.
She strongly believes communication and intimacy are the most important ingredients for building a successful relationship.
Join her on a fabulous journey to improve your love life one step at a time and don't forget to subscribe for weekly blog updates.