The following is a list of reasons why you might be resisting the need to let go. Once we pinpoint the reason, we can figure out how to let go and move on for good.

You still love him.
Plain and simple, you’re still in love with your ex. Take heart, my friend. You’re not the first—and you definitely won’t be the last—to harbor feelings for an ex. Your breakup persona is the Hopeless Romantic. The good news is that you’ll definitely find love again. A word of caution, though—Hopeless Romantics have a tendency to hold on to relationships long after they’re over. And in doing so, you just might run into your ex’s new girlfriend. Double ouch! Walk away, Hopeless Romantic, while your dignity’s still intact.

You’re worried about him.
Are you worried about how Mr. Ex will function without you? You’re not alone. Your breakup persona is the Caretaker. Let’s be clear—there’s nothing wrong with taking care of someone (as long as it’s the right someone). But if you’re a magnet for every stray guy who’s out there, you’re in for a lifetime of romantic pain and suffering. And Caretakers beware—ex-boyfriends are notorious for taking advantage of your good nature. D.N.R. (do not resuscitate).

You’re not sure it’s really over.
Are you still holding out hope that your relationship isn’t totally over? Do you have lots of unanswered questions and find yourself regularly asking Why? Your breakup persona is the Crime Scene Investigator. CSIs tend to linger too long at the breakup scene. They may even muddy the evidence by going back and sleeping with their ex. But this only leads to more questions and it’s risky behavior to be avoided at all costs. If you’re a CSI, the best thing you can do is accept that not all of your questions will be answered and give yourself permission to move on anyway.