8 Signs He’s Not Over His Ex (Even If He Says He Is)

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Moving on after a breakup can be challenging, and sometimes people aren’t as over their ex as they claim to be. If you’re wondering whether your current partner has truly moved on from their past relationship, here are eight telltale signs to watch out for. These indicators might reveal that he’s still holding onto feelings for his ex, even if he insists otherwise.

He constantly brings up his ex in conversations

When a man frequently mentions his ex-partner in conversations, it’s a clear sign he hasn’t fully moved on. Whether he’s sharing anecdotes, comparing you to her, or simply dropping her name into unrelated discussions, this behavior indicates she’s still occupying a significant space in his thoughts. It’s normal to occasionally reference past relationships, but if it becomes a recurring theme, it might be time to address the issue.

He keeps mementos and photos of his ex

If your partner still holds onto physical reminders of his previous relationship, such as photos, gifts, or other mementos, it’s a strong indication he’s not over his ex. While it’s understandable to keep some memories, prominently displaying these items or refusing to part with them suggests he’s still emotionally attached to his past. A man who has truly moved on would typically be more willing to store away or dispose of such reminders.

He stalks his ex’s social media profiles

Regularly checking an ex’s social media accounts is a modern-day sign of lingering attachment. If you notice him frequently scrolling through his ex’s Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter feeds, it’s a red flag. This behavior shows he’s still invested in her life and may be having trouble letting go. A man who has moved on wouldn’t feel the need to keep such close tabs on his former partner’s online presence.

He compares you to his ex, often unfavorably

When a man constantly draws comparisons between you and his ex-girlfriend, particularly if these comparisons aren’t in your favor, it’s a clear sign he’s not over her. This behavior not only indicates that he’s still thinking about her but also suggests he might be idealizing their past relationship. A partner who has truly moved on would focus on your unique qualities rather than measuring you against his ex.

He gets emotional when discussing their breakup

If your partner becomes visibly upset, angry, or overly emotional when talking about his breakup, it’s a sign that he hasn’t fully processed the end of that relationship. While it’s normal to have some residual feelings, strong emotional reactions suggest he’s still working through unresolved issues. A man who has moved on would typically be able to discuss his past relationship more objectively and calmly.

He maintains unnecessary contact with his ex

While some ex-partners can remain friends, excessive or unnecessary communication with an ex is often a sign of unresolved feelings. If he’s constantly texting, calling, or meeting up with his ex without a valid reason (like co-parenting), it suggests he’s not ready to let go of that connection. A man who has moved on would typically limit contact with his ex to what’s absolutely necessary.

He’s reluctant to fully commit to your relationship

If you find that he’s hesitant to take your relationship to the next level or make long-term plans, it could be because he’s still emotionally tied to his past. This reluctance might manifest as avoiding labels, being noncommittal about the future, or keeping parts of his life separate from you. A man who’s truly over his ex would be more open to fully investing in a new relationship.

He gets jealous or upset when his ex dates someone new

A clear sign that he’s not over his ex is if he reacts negatively to news of her dating someone else. If he becomes visibly upset, jealous, or overly interested in her new relationship, it indicates he still harbors feelings for her. A man who has moved on would typically be indifferent to his ex’s dating life, focusing instead on his current relationship with you.

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