It takes you this long to get over your ex

A break-up is always painful, whether you chose it or not. Heartbreak is also a grieving process and can therefore take a long time. How long does it take to really get over your ex?

One well-known rule when going through a break-up is that you typically need about half the duration of the relationship to get over your ex #feelslikeforever. Were you together for ten months? Then you need five months. Eight years together? Then four (!) years.

Fortunately, this does not apply to everyone. Kat Haselkorn, matchmaker at Three Day Rule, told Elite Daily that such a rule can help some people to provide some structure and clarity to their (stressful) break-up. ‘But for some people, there is no exact duration.’

The break-up
Who ended the relationship has a significant influence on how you deal with your heartbreak. Were you the one who made the decision? Then you usually had a bit more time to get used to the idea that you are no longer together and may not need half the duration of your relationship to get over your ex. Of course, a break-up is not pleasant for either party, but if you ended the relationship, you are already a few steps ahead of your ex. 

One thing is for sure: stalking your ex on Insta will not heal your broken heart any faster. Therefore, check the social media do's and don'ts during a break-up.

Time heals
Kat Haselkorn emphasizes that there is no right or wrong way to get over your ex. ‘How long it takes is different for everyone. Listen to your own feelings. Do you think you are ready to date someone else after a few weeks? Then just try it out. On the other hand: if you can't imagine dating anyone else at all yet, give yourself some more time: a week, or six, nine months, or maybe even two years. Whatever you need. Time really does heal all wounds. Maybe a break-up retreat is what you need.’

Finally, a rebound is always an option, and whether that is such a good idea you can read on LotteLust.