1) You're still keeping the remnants of your past relationship
While a clean break -- including trashing all the stuffs that remind you about him -- shortens 'breakup misery', it seems that not many of us follow this rule. We're not talking about Swarovski necklace or Cartier watch here. But if you still haven't boxed up the little trinkets, love letters and teddy bears your ex gave you, chances are you're still holding onto the past.
2) His/Her SMSes are still on your phone
If your cellphone is still full of his/her photos and lovey-dovey texts, it will be virtually impossible to move on and you could be mired with months of perpetuated angst. Think about it this way: these mementos will only make you think what your ex is doing and realise that you're no longer privy to that information. So, erase these digital reminders and see how he starts receding from the forefront of your mind.
3) You fantasize about your ex
Having fantasies about how your relationship with your ex could have been would not help in the process of letting go. We know that it's difficult to get past those feelings, especially when you're fixated on your ex. But remember that breakup happens for a reason.
4) His/Her new relationship freaks you out
Are you wallowing in self-pity when you hear on the grapevine about your ex's new love interest? If learning about his/her new relationship difficult, it means that you're still in your healing phase. Instead, focus on living the best life possible. When split is inevitable, you're actually better off without him/her
5) You harbour the hopes that you two can still have a future together
After such a jarring change in your life, we know the pain can be unbearable. If you're still pinning for your ex who has already moved on to another relationship, it may be more about soothing a bruised ego.
6) You feel that there are things left unsaid with your ex
Do you keep a running list of things you need to tell your ex when you see him/her? Then stop dwelling on the past and move on. When the relationship is over, there's nothing left unresolved already -- especially when your ex has a new love interest. As the old adage goes: out of sight, out of mind. So, it's best to start over with a clean slate after calling it quits with your ex.
7) You're not open to new relationships
If you are constantly thinking about your ex, even when you're hanging out with your friends at the bar, you're closing every possibility of dating someone better -- your potential new partner. Or if you're not getting all excited and nervous about the popular hottie who just approached you for a number, it's highly likely that you're letting the history to take the precedence over the right now.
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* Breakup can be excruciatingly painful. Let's face it -- we've all been there. Some relationships end with fighting. Some end with crying while some with verbal insults. Whichever the case, the split is like your heart being crushed with a mullet. Sure, wallowing can assuage the pain but how long are you going to be stuck feeling unmoored upon breaking up?
If the signs that follow seem familiar, we advise you to move on and get yourself a virtual makeover that will take you from doom and gloom to va va voom in no time!