Is not being friends with your ex-bf/gf a cultural thing?

Having an ex-boyfriend or girlfriend in your life can be enough of a distraction that it keeps you from moving on emotionally — and physically. Just because one person is over the relationship doesn’t mean both people are, and as long as one of you isn’t, the relationship can become a crutch to finding Mr. or Ms. Right. Sometimes people try to talk themselves into being over a relationship only to find themselves getting jealous when their ex introduces them to the new girlfriend in his life. That’s a warning sign that there are still feelings there and those feelings can keep you from fully committing to someone else.

Can you EVER be friends with an ex? Yes. Lots of times people divorce and re-marry, but continue to share custody of their children with an ex-spouse. This is a perfect of example of when it’s important to be friendly or at least civil — but not for each other — for the sake of the children. It makes the kids’ lives easier when their parents are friendly or at least civil. But if you don’t have kids, there’s less of a reason to stay in touch and try and have dinner now and then. Usually these reunions just stir up old feelings that keep you from moving on.

I hope that helps. 🙂