Want your ex-boyfriend back? It's possible. I've helped many couples reunite. Here's how to do it.
The Odds Are Better Than You Think
A study of 792 young adults found that nearly half got back with an ex. You can too. Source: Science Daily.
Your Power to Change Things
What went wrong is fixable in a lot of cases. The work below is the part you control. Whether he responds isn't something I or anyone can promise, including when he's being stubborn.
Will He Move On?
He might. It is normal to wonder, though. If you don't get back together, then it is normal that he will move on. Just as you will, too. In the meantime, it is reasonable to see if reuniting could make sense, and happen.
Let's look at the obvious first step:
The No Contact Rule
Stop all communication. This includes social media. Be polite but brief if you meet. Otherwise, silence is your friend.
It's hard, but it works. Use this time to focus on yourself.
How Long to Wait?
Give it a few weeks. Sometimes 30 days or more. Be patient. Use this time to improve yourself.
Attract Him Again
Work on yourself. Raise your value. Become the best version of you.
Don't:
- Freak out
- Get depressed
- Be clingy
- Beg or call constantly
Do:
- Go out with friends
- Try new things
- Have fun
- Be confident
Why Did He Leave?
Understand the reason. Fix what you can. Common reasons include:
- Boredom
- Lost attraction
- Lack of sex
- Cheating
- Uncertainty
Don't blame. Take responsibility and improve.
Reaching Out
After no contact, text him first. Keep it:
- Upbeat
- Interesting
- Confident
- Happy
Don't send:
- One-word texts
- Angry messages
- Needy pleas
Pick a shared interest. Comment on something new about it. Then wait.
Example: “Hey, just saw that [band you both like] is releasing a new album. Their new single sounds amazing! Reminded me of that concert we went to.”
Remember: The goal is to open communication, not to meet up right away.
Communication Strategies
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Text the right way. Keep messages positive and light. No accusations. No relationship talk initially.
Example that works: “That new Marvel movie looks awesome. Made me think of our debate about the best superhero. Still think yours is better?”
Example that fails: “I miss you so much. Why haven't you called? Can we please talk about what happened?”
Phone calls come later. Wait until texting feels comfortable. Keep first calls under 15 minutes. End on a high note.
[tactical — ask yourself if this would survive him knowing you're doing it on purpose]
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If He's Dating
Don't panic. Most rebound relationships fail. Stick to the plan.
Warning Signs (When to Walk Away)
Know when to stop trying. Some relationships shouldn't be saved. Watch for:
- Repeated physical aggression
- Ongoing emotional abuse
- Constant lying
- Refusal to discuss issues
- Multiple cheating episodes
- Friends and family all say “don't go back”
Trust your gut. If you feel anxious around him, it's a red flag.
Make Him Want You
The following is a typical list of tips. Presented for completeness, not necessarily as "do these wholesale."
- Avoid drama
- Let him take charge [tactical — consider carefully]
- Be a challenge
- Raise your value
- Improve yourself
- Stay mysterious [tactical — consider carefully]
- Keep your cool
- Have fun
A healthy route: Keep pursuing your own interests and maintain your own boundaries and pace. If that reads as independence to him, it's because it's real — not a posture held for effect.
The Bottom Line
Take it slow. Open communication gently. Focus on actually rebuilding a life you're proud of. If that shows up in how you carry yourself, that's a byproduct of the work, not something to stage for his benefit.
Remember, the slower you go, the better your chances.
What Success Can Look Like
Real couples reunite. They break up over differences. But after time apart, those difference may not matter so much. Or, one or both might fix or improve something about themselves.
The pattern that works: Space → Self-improvement → Small reconnection → Friendship → Renewed attraction.
Long-Term Reconciliation
Getting back is just step one. Make the reunion last:
- Discuss what went wrong (once you're stable)
- Create new relationship rules
- Don't blame or revisit old arguments
- Build new memories together
- Consider couples therapy for serious issues
Remember: Second chances need new approaches. Don't repeat old patterns.
No email needed. Takes 30 seconds.
- Advice for your situation
- Clear next steps
- Pitfalls to avoid
Related Playbooks
Explore other guides that might help your situation:
- After Being Needy – If clinginess caused the breakup
- When He's Moved On – If he's dating someone new
By Michael Fulmer — writing about breakups and recovery since 2011. Trained in Gottman Method Couples Therapy (Level 1 & 2). Creator of Breakup Dojo (1,000+ members) and UNFAZED.