The Pros and Cons of Dating Your Ex

Going back to him is tempting, but is it a good idea?

No New Friends - Whether you just bumped into each other after years apart or he’s been begging for months, it can be tempting to get back with an ex when you’re unattached. But is it a good idea? Consider the pros and cons before returning to the well. By Kenrya Rankin Naasel (Photo: Sam Edwards/Getty Images)

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No New Friends - Whether you just bumped into each other after years apart or he’s been begging for months, it can be tempting to get back with an ex when you’re unattached. But is it a good idea? Consider the pros and cons before returning to the well. By Kenrya Rankin Naasel (Photo: Sam Edwards/Getty Images)

Season of Love - February is for lovers. Lovers of fashion, lovers of music, lovers of football and lovers of love alike will enjoy the treats we packed into this month's It List. By Jazmine A. Ortiz (Photo: Hill Street Studios/Blend Images/Corbis)

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PRO: You Know What’s Great About Him - From holding your hand in the park, to his excellent communication skills, to the amazing sex, you remember all the things you loved about him and it sure would be nice to experience them again.  (Photo: David Jakle/Corbis)

You Don’t Talk to Each Other - Communication is one of the most important aspects of maintaining a strong and healthy relationship. If you two don’t ever talk about your relationship or problems, or if you reached a "I give zero sh*ts" attitude, how will it ever get better? It won’t.(Photo: Simon Watson/Getty Images)

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CON: You Broke Up for a Reason - It might seem like a tiny deal since it happened a while ago, but there is a very real reason why you left that man alone. Maybe he was a cheater, or overwhelmingly pessimistic, or not at all generous. Taking off your rose-colored glasses to reflect on the true reason you parted could save you from fresh heartbreak.  (Photo: Simon Watson/Getty Images)

Sometimes It Will Be Quiet - You might go to dinner and not say much. Or sit on the couch together after work without much convo beyond laughing at the television. As long as you enjoy yourself, it’s not a sign that you’ve drifted apart, it’s a sign that you can just enjoy each other’s company without seeking to fill the void. Revel in the comfort — together.   (Photo: Cultura RM/Steven Lam/GettyImages)

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PRO: He’s Familiar - He knows how you like your coffee and exactly where you like to be touched, no explanations necessary. You can fall right back into your patterns, no full face of makeup and staggeringly high heels required. (Photo: Cultura RM/Steven Lam/GettyImages)

How to Let Go - It can be a painful experience to cut ties with someone you share an emotional bond with, but it must be done. No need to stick around in hopes they'll change or see things from your point of view. Instead, bless them and release them because it'll prove to be for the greater good. (Photo: Image Source/Corbis)

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CON: He’s Familiar - The anticipation that comes with a new relationship — “Will he try to kiss me tonight?” — isn’t there. He’s already seen you in your headscarf and raggedy sweats, and you know that he likes to poop with the door open. Peace out, magical wonder.  (Photo: Image Source/Corbis)

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DON’T Expect White Tablecloths - Do you have money for fancy restaurants and bottle service? No? So don’t expect that freshman who asked you out to drop a ton of cash on a date with you. In fact, be prepared to split the bill at the dive you hit up around the corner from campus, or better yet, plan a free date, like a walk in the park or an outdoor movie.  (Photo: Fuse/Getty Images)

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PRO: You’ve Both Grown - Maybe you dated when you were super young, or he had mother issues he has since worked hard to overcome. It is possible that you have both learned lessons that will make you better partners the second time around. (Photo: Fuse/Getty Images)

Can Your Husband or Boyfriend Rape You? - Yes. Just because you have had sex with someone before doesn’t mean that you don’t have a say when you have sex again. You should have the control over your own body whether it’s with your husband, boo, anyone — period. (Photo: Juice Images/Corbis)

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CON: You’ve Both Been With Other People - That new trick he’s doing in the bedroom? Yeah, he perfected it with that chick. Knowing that he’s been with someone else can turn you into a green-eyed monster, and it goes both ways. Who needs that drama?  (Photo: Juice Images/Corbis)

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PRO: It Could Be a Love Connection - Maybe he’s the love of your life and now you’re both in a place to make it work forever and ever. Congrats!  (Photo: Thinkstock/Getty Images)

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CON: It Could Be a Rebound Session - If one of you just came out of a relationship, getting back together is an easy way to avoid jumping back into the dating pool. But convenience does not make for a successful, fulfilling relationship, and it can blind you to the reasons you need to move on. (Photo: G & M David de Lossy/Getty Images)

Photo By Photo: G & M David de Lossy/Getty Images