Does everyone frequently picture life with an ex-partner?

Many people find themselves occasionally imagining what their life might be like if they were still with an ex-partner. This is a common reflection on the 'path not taken' and doesn't necessarily mean you want to reunite. It's often a natural way to consider past choices and how they shaped your present.

Research suggests that over 60% of individuals admit to occasionally thinking about 'what if' scenarios regarding past relationships.

See other perspectives

Am I the only one who frequently pictures what life would be like with an ex-partner?

Am I the Only One?

Is it normal to frequently picture what life would be like with an ex-partner?

Is It Normal?

Is it weird to frequently picture what life would be like with an ex-partner?

Is It Weird?

Why do I frequently picture what life would be like with an ex-partner?

Why Do I?

Real stories from the community

you know how sometimes you find something like totally random and it just hits you in a WAY you didn't expect like a punch to the gut almost so i was cleaning out my grandmas attic this weekend which… …

path not taken

I was at a gallery, technically for work — auditing their financials, which is exactly as riveting as it sounds. …

path not taken

I push his stroller sometimes when we go for walks, you know? …

path not taken

i feel so dumb posting this but here goes — this is stupid but i was walking past the community garden today just after my microeconomics lecture and it just hit me. …

path not taken

Like, a moment of cognitive dissonance, I guess? …

path not taken

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I keep thinking about an old relationship?▾
Thinking about an old relationship can happen for various reasons, including nostalgia, curiosity about how things might have turned out differently, or simply reflecting on a significant part of your personal history. It's often a way to process the past.
Is it normal to miss an ex even if I'm happy now?▾
Yes, it's quite common to experience moments of missing an ex, even when you are content in your current situation. Missing someone doesn't diminish your present happiness; it simply acknowledges the emotional connection and shared history you once had.
What does it mean if I dream about an ex-partner?▾
Dreams about ex-partners are very common and can mean a range of things. They might reflect unresolved feelings, memories, or even symbolize aspects of yourself or past experiences rather than a desire to rekindle the relationship itself.

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