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The law of averages states that you will run into your ex when you’re least expecting it; frazzled looking, exam-stressed or on the way home from the gym, it seems your paths never cross at a good time (if there is a good time for such encounters). There are several ways to deal with this situation; obviously it helps if you’re looking your best on that day, but if not, the situation is still salvageable.
Firstly, act civil, and if appropriate, smile. You cannot be accused of ignoring them or stirring up bad feelings if you made the effort. If they reciprocate, great, if not, you know that you’re the bigger person (and will most likely end up remembering why you broke up in the first place/feeling relieved about your lucky escape). If you broke up on good terms, a civil encounter will keep things this way and make it easier the next time you see them, as you inevitably will. If you didn’t break up on such good terms, smiling at them will most likely throw them off guard, as they won’t have been expecting it, and leave them stuttering and not knowing how to react. 1-0 to you.
Try to read their body language. If they’re trying to look straight past you, or become tense as soon as they see you, chances are, they don’t really want to be having a conversation with you. Once you’ve acknowledged them, let them go about their business unless they make the next move.
If you do get drawn into a conversation with them, keep it brief. Think Brooke and Gary at the end of The Break up. Short and sweet. A long conversation is an easy way to stir up old feelings, regardless of how much you might think you’ve moved on. Let them think you have a busy and hectic life and don’t need them in any shape or form. If asked how you are, simply answer “great”, even if you aren’t feeling it at that moment in time.
Don’t divulge whether you are in a new relationship-keep them guessing. Maybe they care, maybe they don’t, but again, that’s a conversation that can stir up old feelings. Similarly, do them the courtesy of not asking such awkward questions.
When and where you bump into your ex is one of those things you never have any control over. Most importantly, remember why you broke up in the first place. The way you to such situations is what causes half of the awkwardness. Get this sussed and you’re halfway there. At the end of the day you split up for a reason, regardless of whose choice it was.
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