36 Easy Ways To Make Your Ex Love You Again

Getting your ex to love you again? It sounds like a plot straight out of a rom-com, but real life ain’t Hollywood. Jumping back into the deep end with someone from your past requires more than just wishful thinking. It’s a combination of self-reflection, honest communication, and a willingness to grow together. Whether it was a bitter breakup or a mutual split, reigniting that old flame needs patience, understanding, and genuine effort. So, if you’re gearing up for round two with your ex, we’ve got some down-to-earth advice to guide you. Let’s dive into how to potentially make that “ex” title a thing of the past.

1. Take time to assess what went wrong the first time around.

Before we dive headfirst into texts and teary meet-ups, let’s hit the pause button. Why did things end in the first place? Was it a tiff about dishes, or something more serious? Pinpointing the actual root causes can help you address the real issues, instead of just slapping on a temporary band-aid. It’s less about pointing fingers and more about understanding the dynamics that led to the split. The clearer you are on this, the more genuine and effective your approach will be.

2. Apologize if necessary.

Swallowing our pride is tough, especially if we’re still nursing a bruised ego. But if you genuinely believe a misstep on your part contributed to the split, own up to it. A heartfelt apology isn’t about groveling or seeking pity; it’s about acknowledging your role and showing maturity. Remember, saying “I’m sorry” can be powerful, but only if it’s sincere and comes from a place of self-awareness.

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4. Keep the lines of communication open.

We’re not talking about bombarding him with texts at 3 a.m. or liking every single one of his Instagram posts since 2015. No, this is about being available for genuine conversation. If he reaches out, be receptive but not overly eager. Keep it casual, and steer clear of the blame game or the “what ifs.” Focus on the present and the potential future.

5. Give him space.

Ah, the art of stepping back. This might seem counterintuitive, but sometimes the best thing you can do is…well, do nothing. Pressing too hard can come off as desperate and push him further away. Let him breathe, process, and come to terms with his feelings. By giving him space, you’re also giving yourself time to reflect and heal.

6. Rebuild the trust you lost.

Trust is like a porcelain vase; once broken, it’s tricky to mend. But it’s not impossible. If trust issues played a part in your breakup, work on rebuilding that foundation. This isn’t a quick fix— it’s a marathon, not a sprint. It involves consistent effort, honesty, and transparency. Showing him, through actions rather than just words, that you’re committed to building a stronger bond can go a long way.

7. Show that you’ve grown as a person and as a partner.

We’ve all been there, stuck in our ways or making the same mistakes over and over again. But here’s the thing, if you’re aiming to reignite an old flame, showing you’ve evolved is crucial. Whether it was listening more, being more patient, or just understanding his quirks better, highlighting your growth isn’t about bragging. It’s about demonstrating that you’ve reflected, learned, and are committed to being a better partner now.

8. Keep your own life and don’t put all your focus on him.

It’s tempting, especially when you’re trying to win someone back, to make them the center of your universe. But here’s some real talk: independence is sexy. Continue chasing your dreams, hanging with your friends, and living your life. Not only does it make you more intriguing, but it also shows that you’re well-rounded and not reliant on him for your happiness.

9. Avoid acting desperate (even if you feel desperate).

We’ve all had those weak moments, where sending that fifth consecutive text seems like a brilliant idea. But desperation can be sensed from a mile away, and it’s rarely attractive. Stay composed. It’s okay to express your feelings, but there’s a fine line between being genuine and coming across as clingy. You’ve got this!

10. Try and rekindle a friendship first.

Jumping straight back into the deep end of romantic waters might seem appealing, but it can also backfire. Start with a solid base. Rebuild your friendship, understand each other as pals first, and then see where things go. It’s less pressure, and it’ll give you both a chance to see if there’s still a spark without the weight of labels.

11. Reminisce about the good times.

Not in a “let’s live in the past” kind of way, but recalling happy memories can remind you both of why you clicked in the first place. Sharing a laugh over that disastrous camping trip or that time you both got lost in the city can bridge gaps and reestablish a shared bond. It’s about reigniting the warmth and camaraderie that once was.

12. Be consistent.

Consistency is the name of the game. If you’re serious about making this work, sporadic effort won’t cut it. Maybe in the past, you were a little flaky or non-committal. Now’s the time to be steady. Show up, be present, and let your actions speak volumes. It not only builds trust but also lets him know that you’re genuinely committed this time around.

couple at couples therapy

provided by iStock

13. Consider going to couples therapy if he’s up for it.

There’s no shame in seeking a referee in the form of a therapist. If things went south before, a neutral third party can offer fresh perspectives, tools, and strategies to navigate the complex world of relationships. If he’s open to it, couples therapy can be a safe space to voice concerns, understand each other, and build a healthier dynamic.

14. Do stuff you both used to love together.

Shared experiences can act like glue in relationships. Revisit those activities or places that used to make both of you light up. Whether it was that quaint cafe where you had your first date, the hobby you both bonded over, or those silly dance-offs in the living room – tap into those shared joys. It can reignite passion and remind you of the connection that drew you together in the first place.

15. Avoid falling into old, toxic patterns.

You’re not trying to go back to how things were; you’re aiming for better. So, while it’s tempting to slip back into familiar habits, be vigilant. Recognize the red flags, call each other out (constructively), and actively work towards building a healthier relationship dynamic. Remember, you’re in this to create a brighter future, not relive past mistakes.

16. Take things slow — don’t rush them.

Enthusiasm’s great, but remember the saying, “Fools rush in?” Take a leaf out of that book. Pace yourselves. The urge to fast forward and make up for lost time might be strong, but lasting relationships are marathons, not sprints. Enjoy the process of rediscovering each other, building trust, and laying down a solid foundation.

17. Be authentically yourself — don’t pretend to be the woman you think he wants you to be.

Let’s get one thing straight: there’s only one you, and that’s your superpower. It’s easy to try to mold yourself into someone you think he might prefer, but it’s exhausting and unsustainable. Plus, genuine connections are built on authenticity. So, wear your quirks proudly and be unapologetically yourself. If he’s the right one, he’ll love you for it.

18. Respect his boundaries.

Relationships are all about balance. While you might be eager to dive back in, he might need a bit more space or time. And that’s okay. Recognize and respect his boundaries. Whether it’s about personal space, communication, or past issues, honoring those limits shows maturity and respect.

19. Actively listen to him.

We often listen to respond rather than understand. But if you’re making another go at this, it’s crucial to truly hear him out. Active listening involves being present, avoiding interruptions, and seeking clarity instead of making assumptions. It’s one of the simplest yet most powerful ways to show you value and respect him.

20. Look hot as hell.

While appearances aren’t everything, there’s no harm in feeling and looking your best. Put on that outfit that makes you feel like a million bucks or try out a new hairstyle. It’s not about impressing him as much as it’s about boosting your confidence. When you feel good, it shows.

21. Surprise him with something you know he’ll love.

Small gestures go a long way. It doesn’t have to be grand or pricey, just thoughtful. Maybe it’s that book he mentioned wanting to read or his favorite snack. These gestures show you’ve been paying attention and that you care about his happiness.

22. Share your goals for the future with him.

Rather than keeping your hopes and dreams locked up, share them. Whether it’s plans about travel, career moves, or just future aspirations, letting him in shows trust. Plus, it’s a great way to see if you’re both on the same page when envisioning a life together.

23. Be patient if he needs time to process.

We all process emotions at different speeds, and if he’s taking his sweet time, that’s okay. Jumping back into things can be overwhelming. Give him the space he needs, and remember, it’s quality over speed. Pressuring him can do more harm than good.

24. Get your mutual friends involved.

Sometimes, a little nudge from mutual friends can help smoothen things out. They can offer perspectives, share memories, or just be a comforting presence. But remember, they shouldn’t be mediators or take sides – it’s about support, not interference.

couple back to back on the beach

provided by iStock

25. Forgive and let go — let bygones be bygones.

Holding onto past grudges is like trying to drive forward while looking in the rearview mirror; you’ll eventually crash. If you’re considering reigniting the flame, you’ve got to let go of old resentments. And yes, it’s easier said than done, but it’s essential for a fresh start.

26. Be someone he can lean on in tough times.

If he’s going through rough patches, be his rock. Show him that you’re not just here for the good times but also when the going gets tough. Offering a listening ear, practical help, or just being a comforting presence can solidify your bond.

27. Understand his love language.

We all express and perceive love differently. Some like physical affection, while others prefer acts of service or words of affirmation. Understand what makes him tick, and show love in a way that resonates with him. It’ll let him know you’re truly invested.

28. Ask him how he’s feeling/how he thinks things are going.

Communication isn’t just about speaking, but also inquiring. Regularly checking in with him will give you both a clear understanding of where you stand. It’s about fostering a space where both of you feel safe and comfortable to voice your feelings and concerns.

29. Avoid playing the blame game.

No one wins when you’re pointing fingers. Constantly placing blame will only erode the trust and positivity you’re trying to rebuild. Instead, focus on solutions, understanding, and mutual growth. Remember, it’s about moving forward together, not getting stuck in the past.

30. Respect his growth as an individual.

Just as you’ve had experiences and grown while apart, so has he. Value the person he’s become and the lessons he’s learned. Instead of trying to fit him into old molds, appreciate the new dimensions he brings into the relationship. Growth is a sign of life, and it’s essential to cherish it.

31. Show appreciation for the little things.

It’s not always the grand gestures that count. Sometimes, it’s the small, everyday things that matter most. Whether it’s making breakfast, sending a sweet text, or simply being there when needed, show gratitude. This nurtures positivity and encourages more acts of kindness.

32. Rebuild intimacy between you.

Intimacy isn’t just about the physical; it’s also emotional and mental. It’s about reconnecting on all levels. Spend quality time together, have deep conversations, and let vulnerability take its course. Trust the process and give each other the space to rebuild that close bond.

33. Be transparent about everything.

Honesty is the foundation of trust. If you want to re-establish trust, you’ve got to be an open book. Whether it’s about your feelings, past actions, or future intentions, lay it all out. This transparency shows you’re serious about making things work and ensures there are no unpleasant surprises down the line.

34. Share responsibilities so that there’s a balance.

Gone are the days when one person shoulders everything. Relationships thrive on teamwork. Whether it’s planning dates, making decisions, or sorting out issues, be in it together. Sharing responsibilities fosters a sense of partnership and shows that neither of you is taking the other for granted.

35. Be willing to compromise.

No one gets their way all the time. And honestly, that’s okay. It’s not about winning or losing but finding a middle ground that works for both. Compromise shows you value the relationship more than being right. So, pick your battles and remember that sometimes, it’s okay to meet halfway.

36. Build mutual respect.

A relationship without respect is like a house without a foundation – it won’t stand strong. See him as an equal, value his opinions, and acknowledge his feelings. The same should be reciprocated. In the dance of love, respect is the rhythm that keeps both partners in sync.

37. Keep a positive attitude and remain hopeful.

When the going gets tough, it’s this blend of positivity and hope that will see you through. Life throws curveballs, but facing challenges with a positive mindset and the hope that things will get better can be the buffer you both need. It’s about believing in the strength of your bond and trusting that, together, you can navigate any storm.

Originally from Australia, Emma Mills graduated from the University of Queensland with a dual degree in Philosophy and Applied Linguistics before moving to Los Angeles to become a professional matchmaker (a bit of a shift, obviously). Since 2015, she has helped more than 150 people find lasting love and remains passionate about bringing amazing singletons together.

Emma is also the author of the upcoming Hachette publication, "Off the Beaten Track: Finding Lasting Love in the Least Likely of Places," due out in January 2025.