Rebound Guy: 43 Signs, Pros, Cons & Secrets to Date a Girl Hooked to Her Ex

Are you afraid that you might be the rebound guy? If you want a relationship with her, then this is a nightmare. Here’s how to figure out if you are.

We’ve all been in relationships that broke our hearts and left us feeling like nothing’s going to happen in our lives from here on out. But right after a breakup, we enter a period of insecurity and sadness. This is where girls tend to go for a rebound guy.

She jumps into another relationship.

We completely understand why. Who wants to feel heartbreak? Who wants to be alone?

So, instead, she picks someone out of the crowd she thinks will be good for her. She finds a rebound guy to distract her from the fact that she’s grieving over the relationship that didn’t work.

This feels terrible on the receiving end, especially if her rebound guy actually likes her and is falling hard for her.

So, if you want to know you’re the rebound guy, don’t worry; we’ll be discussing everything you need to know in this feature. [Read: Rebound relationship: What it is, 43 signs you’re in it & the must-know rules]

What is a Rebound Guy?

From the word itself, a rebound guy is someone you help yourself to get over a breakup. Since the end of a relationship hurts that much and you want to avoid feeling it or dealing with it, you bury yourself with the next guy you find.

When you’re the rebound guy, don’t expect any kind of emotional or mental intimacy.

All you’re ever going to get is sex in the relationship, and that can be both a bad and good thing. It’s good because, well, it’s sex.

It’s bad because if you genuinely like her, you’ll never get anything more out of her than anything physical.

Basically, you’re what she needs in the moment of her heartbreak because she doesn’t want to miss her ex or think about him.

Why Do Girls Get into Rebound Relationships?

Sure, we often hear about the classic rebound scenario where someone jumps back into dating soon after a breakup. [Read: Rebound sex – 21 reasons, signs, and questions to know if you’re ready for it]

But there’s more to this dynamic, especially from the perspective of a guy who finds himself as the rebound.

Understanding the myriad reasons why a woman might choose to date someone on the rebound can offer valuable insights and prepare you for what’s ahead.

Let’s delve into these reasons, exploring the psychological underpinnings and real-life situations that make this path appealing for some. [Read: Rebound relationship – what it is, 43 signs you’re in it, and the must-know rules]

1. Rebuilding Self-identity After a Breakup

You know how in every classic movie there’s that predictable plot twist? Well, in the real-life romance saga, having a rebound guy after a breakup is pretty much the same – it’s the canon event!

It’s like unwritten relationship law: break up, find rebound, and voilà! But here’s the kicker – it’s not just about finding a new plus-one for trivia nights. For many women, this phase is their own blockbuster moment of self-re-discovery.

Picture this: she’s been part of a duo for so long, and suddenly she’s solo. The rebound guy is there while she explores new aspects of her personality, hobbies she never got around to, or even karaoke skills she never knew she had. [Read: Secrets to help and comfort a friend heal through a breakup and feel better]

It’s less about filling a gap and more about painting a new self-portrait, with brighter and bolder colors this time.

So, while it might seem like she’s just jumped from one relationship ship to another, she’s actually on a voyage to the exciting land of ‘Who Am I Really?’ – and hey, like they say, “do it for the plot!” [Read: 25 Honest, self-reflection questions to recognize the real YOU inside]

2. Seeking a Boost in Self-esteem

Speaking of rebounds, you know how a girl’s self-esteem might take a nosedive after a breakup?

Enter the rebound guy – he’s not just Mr. Right Now; he’s Mr. Right-Here-to-Boost-Your-Ego. When she’s getting attention and affection from someone new, it’s like her self-esteem gets a VIP pass to the comeback party.

It’s all about validation. Every compliment, every “good morning” text, every laugh shared over coffee – they’re like power-ups for her confidence. [Read: 30 Signs of low self-esteem in a woman that reveal a need for self-love]

It’s not just about feeling wanted; it’s about remembering that she’s still got it.

She’s not seeking just any attention – she’s looking for the kind that reminds her she’s desirable, fun, and totally capable of being in a relationship that makes her heart sing.

So, while it might seem like she’s just enjoying the new fling, what she’s really doing is rebuilding her confidence, one charming smile at a time. [Read: Dating someone with low self-esteem – what it’s like for both of you]

3. The Drive to Fill Emotional Voids

You know, instead of sulking about the fact that her favorite plus-one is no longer on speed dial, a girl might take a different route. It’s like, why mope around listening to breakup playlists when you can be busy diving into a new relationship?

This isn’t just about rebounding for the sake of rebounding. It’s more like an emergency fill-up at the emotional gas station. The void left by a breakup can feel like a gaping hole in her daily life.

Suddenly, there’s this big, empty space where good morning texts, inside jokes, and Netflix binges used to be. So, what’s a girl to do? Find someone who can temporarily park in that vacant spot. [Read: How not to feel lonely – 30 ways to chase the lonely blues away]

4. Responding to Social Pressures

Imagine it’s been six months since her breakup, and she’s still riding solo. But then, Thanksgiving dinner rolls around, and so do the inquisitive glances and well-meaning but prying questions from Aunt Susan.

“Honey, why aren’t you seeing anyone yet?” “You know, you’re not getting any younger.” It’s like her single status is the elephant in the room, nibbling on the cranberry sauce. This kind of social pressure can be a real game-changer.

It’s not just Aunt Susan, it’s the Instagram posts of friends getting engaged, the Facebook updates about baby showers, the world seemingly screaming, “Pair up!” [Read: Social media addiction – the 16 alarming symptoms and how to break out]

So, what does she do? She might just jump back into the dating pool, not because she’s desperate for love, but because she’s a bit tired of justifying her singlehood. It’s like she’s trying to fit into this societal mold that equates being in a relationship with being successful or fulfilled.

This new guy she’s seeing? He might be great, but he’s also a shield against the barrage of “why are you still single?” questions. It’s her way of saying, “Look, I’m back in the game!”

5. Attempting to Make an Ex Jealous

This one might sting a bit, especially if you didn’t realize you were the rebound guy. Picture this: she’s not just casually dating you because you’re Mr. Charming. [Read: Jealousy vs. envy – 22 signs to tell them apart when they feel the same]

Nope, there’s a bit of a plot twist – you’re also playing the role of Mr. Make-My-Ex-Jealous. It’s like you’ve unwittingly been cast as the lead in her personal soap opera titled ‘Revenge Is Best Served Hot.’

Here’s the deal: she’s still got a few embers burning for her ex, and what better way to fan those flames than by showing off her new, seemingly perfect relationship? It’s a mix of hurt pride and a dash of ‘watch me bounce back stronger.’

Each Instagram post with you, every hand-holding selfie, is like a subtle nudge to her ex, saying, “Look at what you’re missing out on.” [Read: Social media and relationships – 47 rules, etiquette, and where couples go wrong]

It’s not the most flattering role to play, and it’s definitely a bit of a reality check when you realize that those picture-perfect moments might be part strategy, part romance.

But hey, it’s a complicated world out there in the dating game, and sometimes, you end up being a pawn in a larger game of emotional chess.

6. The Allure of New Experiences

The human brain is indeed wired to appreciate novelty. [Read: 5 Powerful steps to break out of your comfort zone]

The thrill of new experiences, conversations, and emotions with a new partner can be incredibly enticing, especially after the predictability and routine of a long-term relationship. It’s like opening a new book filled with unknown stories and adventures.

But there’s more to this than just the excitement of the unknown. When she embarks on this new journey, her brain is literally lighting up with happiness chemicals. We’re talking about a cocktail of oxytocin and dopamine here.

Oxytocin, often dubbed the ‘love hormone,’ plays a role in bonding and increasing trust and loyalty in new relationships. Dopamine, the ‘feel-good neurotransmitter,’ is all about pleasure and reward. [Read: Chemistry of love – how hormones make you feel love the way you do]

It’s what gives her that rush of excitement when she receives a text from her new beau or when they share a first kiss.

These chemical reactions are powerful motivators that can drive her toward seeking out these new experiences.

It’s like her brain is rewarding her for every new encounter and discovery in her rebound relationship, making the journey not just emotionally, but biochemically thrilling as well. [Read: Infatuation – the definition, how to break out, and 47 signs you’re deeply infatuated]

7. Physical and Emotional Intimacy Needs

Let’s be real for a second: hugs, kisses, and yes, sex, are not just physical acts; they’re emotional experiences, especially in the context of a rebound relationship. When a woman finds herself with a rebound guy, it’s not just about filling a spot left vacant by her ex.

It’s about the human need for physical and emotional connection. These acts of intimacy are crucial in providing comfort, a sense of closeness, and sometimes, a validation of her attractiveness and worth.

After a breakup, the absence of physical touch and emotional support can feel like a gaping hole. The rebound guy steps into this space, not just as a placeholder, but as a source of warmth and affection. [Read: 33 Emotional needs in a relationship, signs they’re unmet, and how to meet them]

It’s not always about seeking long-term commitment or deep emotional investment. Sometimes, it’s more about the immediate reassurance that comes from being held, being listened to, or just sharing a moment of physical closeness.

19 Ways to Tell if You’re the Rebound Guy

Of course, it’s an asshole move to make, but we all make it. We think we need someone else to validate us. In reality, you need to process your feelings without someone new by your side. But, being the rebound guy happens to the best of us.

1. Though You’re Together, There’s a Piece Missing

People say men aren’t intuitive, but that’s a lie. Everyone is intuitive, and you just have to pay attention to those feelings. If you feel that something is missing, then there’s something missing.  [Read: How to start listening to your masculine instincts]

Don’t second guess it; listen to this instinct. So, if your gut instinct is telling you that you’re the rebound guy, listen to it. Most likely, that feeling of yours is accurate.

2. You’re Moving Fast… Too Fast

One of the common signs of a rebound relationship is when you’re skipping phases and moving too fast. You just met and suddenly, she wants to bring you to this event or even travel!

She already told you that she loves you, she holds your hand, you’re going to move in together… and you just met. [Read: 10 speedy signs your relationship is moving too fast]

Woah, isn’t that a red flag? We know you think that maybe she just likes you that much. But if she’s rushing through things, really ask yourself why this is the case.

Though it’s moving quickly, you have a feeling that it’s not progressing at the same time.

3. When She Talks About Her Ex, There’s Anger

It’s normal to mention your ex in specific conversations. [Read: How to get over an ex: 17 steps to heal ASAP in the healthiest way]

If you’re over your ex, you should be able to talk about them without any resentment. However, if her face turns red with fury, well, she’s still not over her ex. Clearly.

If she keeps trash-talking her ex to you and ranting about everything her ex did wrong, this is an evident indicator you’re the rebound guy.

Also, watch for the frequency she talks about her ex. If it’s all the time, there’s your answer.

4. There’s a Lot of Sex Involved

Sex isn’t bad in a relationship; it’s actually healthy. [Read: Too much sex? 15 signs to know if your sex life is well balanced]

But when you always have sex without developing any kind of emotional or mental intimacy, that’s when it becomes a red flag. You’re just the rebound guy – nothing more.

She needs to forget her ex-partner, trying to do that through sex. She wants to feel a connection. However, she’s emotionally not capable.

She can’t provide you with anything other than physical intimacy. [Read: Just sex – why we crave it and 26 truths why sex can really never be just sex]

5. She Focuses on Making Her Ex Jealous

She takes selfies with you or post-romantic statutes not because she actually feels that way but because she wants to make her ex jealous. Of course, she follows them on Facebook. How else would she creep them?

She also knows her ex sees her posts, and what better way to make someone jealous than to post a photo of her kissing someone else. Basically, she’s using you as leverage to make her ex jealous.

So before you get thrilled that she loves taking photos with you, look at her intentions behind this action first. She’s not doing it out of admiration but for jealousy. [Read: How to make your ex jealous & leave them begging for forgiveness]

6. She Was Freshly Single Before Meeting You

If you ask her about her dating history, she mentions she was in a relationship and they broke up, but next, ask her when that happened.

Our guess is that it’s pretty fresh, a couple of weeks or a month or two. If she’s freshly single, it’s not enough time to process emotions and feelings.

While there’s no specific period to get over an ex, dating too soon indicates you’re a rebound guy. Particularly if they broke up only weeks ago, it’s impossible to get over someone that quick. [Read: Toxic relationship: What it is, 107 signs, causes & types of love that hurt you]

7. Generally, She Seems Lost in Life

Basically, she doesn’t know who she is or what she wants. It’s almost as if she’s only able to identify herself as who she was. And now, she seems to be floating without really understanding herself.

When someone goes through a breakup, they often feel lost without knowing who they are anymore.

So if she’s using you as a rebound, this is one of the things you need to watch out for. She doesn’t want to feel pain, and she doesn’t want to grow. She just wants to be comfortable. [Read: How to move on and deal with a break up with a smile]

8. Her Breakup Came as a Surprise

If you know your relationship will end, you grieve and mourn the end of the relationship, and you need less recovery time. But, if your relationship suddenly ended out of nowhere, you’re shocked.

This leaves someone in a more extensive state of sadness and constant analyzation. And if she just ended her relationship last week, well, you know straight away she’s not over her ex.

9. She’s Creeping Them on Social Media

Social media is the best place to stalk your ex and also how to find out once and for all if you’re the rebound guy or not. Out of the corner of your eye, you see her creeping her ex’s Facebook or Instagram. [Read: 37 signs your girlfriend’s not over her ex & misses him or wants him back]

Trust us; she’s not doing it because suddenly she wonders how he is and if he’s happy. Nah, come on.

She wants to know what he’s doing and who he’s with. Why? Because she’s not over him. She’s desperate to keep up with his life, even if they’re no longer together. 

10. You Actually Don’t Have Anything in Common

Aside from the copious amounts of sex you have, you don’t actually have anything in common. In addition, you don’t really do things that involve deep conversations. [Read: Do couples always have to like the same things?]

Sex is great and we highly recommend it, but if she was over her ex, she wouldn’t have a problem opening up to you.

You’re evidently a rebound guy if she’s still seeing you despite having no common ground or emotional intimacy. It’s because she needs you to distract her from her heartbreak.

11. They Bring Up Their Ex… a Lot

We’ve all talked about our exes, one way or another. But what differentiates a girl not over her ex from one that is comes down to the frequency of talking about her ex. [Read: 37 Real signs she’s serious about you and wants an exclusive relationship]

She tells you she’s over her ex but is she really? Because she brings her ex up in conversation whenever she gets the chance. If her ex was entirely out of her head, well, she wouldn’t speak about them.

12. She Wants to Commit, but She Doesn’t

When you’re her rebound guy, her indecisiveness to commit will be evident. You might see her possess mixed signals or how her behavior switches from one to another. She clearly doesn’t know what she wants.

She wants you to be with her, but she doesn’t want to be in a committed relationship with you or make it Facebook official. [Read: What is commitment in a relationship & how to know if you have it?]

Though you two spend a lot of time together, her need to commit to you is non-existent. This is because she doesn’t actually want to be with you.

13. You’re Way Better Than Her Ex

Like, waaaay better than her ex. You know how we know that? Because she’s been telling you this every day since the first day she met you.

Everything you do is better than her ex. Her ex would never pay for dinner but see, you do, and that’s why she likes you. She’s also not over him…if you get our hint. [Read: Love triangles and the confusing complications it can bring]

You’re the exact opposite of her ex and yet, she doesn’t see herself being with you seriously. Why? Because you’re her rebound guy. 

14. You Feel as Though You Were Picked Out of a Line-up

We know you probably thought it would be a good thing to be the first guy she’s dated after a breakup but not necessarily.

In reality, it’s probably better if you were the second or third guy she dated after the breakup. You’re the first guy she laid eyes on, and that’s now who she’s with.

It’s a horrible feeling being a rebound guy. In fact, if you feel this in any amount, run! This means you’re the first person she’ll project her heartbreak and unhealed issues to.

You might even have a better chance with her if you were the second or third guy she dated, but sadly no, that’s not the case. [Read: 20 signs she’s leading you on, using you & pretending to love you]

15. Your Intuition Tells You That If They Had the Opportunity, They’d Go Back to Their Ex

It is not necessary to be a rocket scientist to figure out whether someone is still not over their ex. Do you believe the person you’re seeing would accept the return of your ex if it ever came to that point?

There is no more explicit evidence that the person with whom you’re dating is seeking your company as a transitory healing phase if the response to your question is “I don’t know” or “Maybe.”

If you ever get this feeling when you’re with someone, it’s positive that you’re a rebound guy. [Read: 82 secrets & signs to get your ex back and get them to love you again]

16. You Feel That They’re Too Distant or Won’t Open Up

As a rebound guy, you have the impression that you are unable to connect with that person emotionally and that there is a significant disconnection between you, even if you spend a lot of time together.

They don’t do this because rebounders aren’t usually invested in the relationship and don’t connect emotionally. Rebounds are always very casual, empty, or only about having sex. [Read: Emotionally distant partner: 24 signs, effects & steps to feel closer again]

17. Social Media Statuses are Still Sad

You should be aware that if the person you’re seeing is posting depressing content or updates on social media, it is possible that they are still living with the effects of their previous relationship.

This might suggest that they are not ready to start a new relationship at this moment. Whether or not you are a rebound guy may be decided by how you behave in this particular situation. [Read: Social media & relationships: 47 rules, etiquette & where couples go wrong]

18. She Acts Very Bitterly

There’s nothing wrong with not having moved on yet when it comes to your previous relationship. The fact that you’re behaving so bitter in front of your current boyfriend or girlfriend, on the other hand, is a significant concern.

Obviously, if the girl you’re seeing is only speaking negatively about their ex and radiating bad energy around them, there are still powerful sentiments that are being channeled.

This is a clue that she is still attached to her ex, and you should consider talking to her about it in order to prevent making the situation worse. [Read: 26 honest steps to let go of someone you love and move on & find peace]

19. They’re a Little Too Eager to Publicize Your New Relationship

There is nothing wrong with being enthusiastic when you meet someone new, but if your new partner already announces their love for you in public, it’s not the best sign.

A new relationship may be exciting, but only if you’re confident it’s solid before you flaunt it out to the world.

The sequence might seem out of sync when working with a new partner coming off a breakup. Before you get a chance to get to know each other, they’ll want to show you off. [Read: Facebook relationship status: 30 must-knows & why it matters to some people]

Dating a Girl Who’s on the Rebound – What You Must Know

So, before you rush into a rebound relationship, you need to know a couple of things. Not a lot of things, but things to keep in mind before becoming a rebound.

There’s nothing wrong with being a rebound, if that’s what you’re thinking. It’s easy to develop feelings for people who don’t want the same things as you, especially in relationships.

As long as you think about it carefully before you get into it, your rebound relationship should be smooth sailing. Just be prepared. The rules for dating a girl who’s on the rebound are a little different. [Read: Dating rules – 10 unfair but relevant rules we all have to live by]

1. Where Are You Emotionally?

If you want to date a girl who’s on the rebound, you need to make sure you’re emotionally prepared for it. She just left a relationship, so she’s probably not thinking about anything long term.

And if she is, she’s scared to be alone and you shouldn’t date her anyway. She may not be dating you for the right reasons.

2. Don’t Rush

Not because of her, but because of you. Listen, if she’s trying to get over her ex then there’s no point trying to push her into a relationship with you. [Read: 25 Signs your relationship is moving too fast and the best ways to slow it down]

Keep it casual, have fun, but don’t rush this. You need to take it slow and make sure you protect yourself from getting hurt.

3. You’re a Steppingstone

There are some cases where rebounds turn into long-term relationships but more often than not, you’re a steppingstone to the next relationship.

You need to understand you’re meant to have fun with her and that’s it. She’s not looking for someone serious to be with. She’s out on the prowl. [Read: Monkey branching – what it is and 33 signs you’re being branched for someone else]

4. She’s Not Completely Over Her Ex

No matter what she says, she’s not over her ex. You’re a rebound which means this breakup is fresh.

If she’s telling you she’s fine and ready for a serious relationship, she’s lying. Remember, no matter what she says, she is definitely not over her ex.

5. Know What She Wants

After you figure out what you want, make sure it’s on the same page as her. No one wants to ask, but you need to do this. [Read: Does she like me? 32 subtle signs she sees you as more than a friend]

Or else, you’ll never know what she is looking for. Does she want a friends-with-benefits relationship? How does she feel about you? Find out the answers to these questions to figure out your next move.

6. Weigh Your Risks

People aren’t always straight up, even when you’re open and honest with them. Weigh the risks of this rebound relationship.

Is it really worth it for you to start dating her? Do you have feelings for her? If you do, do you really want to get caught up in a relationship she isn’t fully invested to. [Read: 24 Secrets to be patient in a relationship and avoid risking a new love]

7. Know Your Boundaries

You figured out what she wants from the relationship and you know what you want from it. So, now it’s time to create boundaries for yourself. Are you going to allow sleepovers?

Will you go on dates or keep it a sex-only relationship? Boundaries are everything if you don’t want to get hurt.

8. She May Go Back to Her Ex

You don’t want to hear this, but the breakup is fresh, so there’s always a chance she will go back to her ex. [Read: When to leave a relationship? 29 Honest signs it’s time to say goodbye]

 Usually, breakups aren’t very clean cut, and it’s not uncommon for people to breakup multiple times before calling it quits. So, this may just be one of those times.

9. Limit Your Emotion

You know she’s just got out of a relationship, so there’s no point investing yourself in her.

She has a lot of things on her mind, and right now she may not be looking for more drama. She wants something carefree and fun. If you want the same thing, then good. If you want more, don’t do it. [Read: 32 Truths to emotionally detach from someone and not feel hurt anymore]

10. Explore Sex

She has a lot of pent-up anger, a lot of emotions going through her, so she’s looking to release it. You can be the person she goes wild with.

See? That doesn’t sound so bad, right? It’s a great opportunity to let her go wild and, of course, you enjoy it.

11. It’s Short-term

When it comes to rebound relationships, they don’t usually last. If anything, they’re a couple of months long and filled with sex. In other words, not a lot of talking. [Read: Early stages of dating and 25 expectations and must-knows of a new romance]

Of course, there are exceptions, but don’t go into a rebound relationship thinking it’s going to be the one that’s different from the rest.

12. You’ll Have Fun

If you do it right and take the necessary steps to protect yourself, you can have a really good time. It’s not a relationship that’s going to last forever, so you might as well enjoy every moment. Remember, you just need to remind yourself what this relationship is.

Positive Aspects of Being the Rebound Guy

So, you’ve realized you’re the rebound guy. We’ve talked about the not-so-great parts of dating a girl on a rebound, but before you consider running for the hills, let’s pause and look at the other side of the coin. [Read: Positive self-talk – what it is, where it comes from, and how to master it]

There are indeed some positive aspects to being in this position, each offering unique insights and opportunities for personal growth.

1. Opportunity for Self-discovery and Growth

Being the rebound guy can be a journey of self-discovery. It’s a chance to understand your own needs and boundaries in relationships.

You get to explore what you’re truly looking for in a partner and what you can offer in a relationship. This experience can be a valuable lesson in emotional intelligence and personal resilience. [Read: 25 Honest, self-reflection questions to recognize the real YOU inside]

2. No Pressure For Immediate Commitment

Often, a girl on a rebound isn’t looking for something super serious right away, which can be a good thing.

This situation allows you to explore a relationship without the immediate pressure of long-term commitment. It’s a chance to enjoy the present moments and get to know each other without heavy expectations.

3. You’ll Learn and Improve Your Relationship Skills

This kind of relationship can be a great learning ground for honing your relationship skills. [Read: How to show empathy and learn to understand someone else’s feelings]

It can teach you about effective communication, empathy, and how to handle complex emotional situations. These are valuable skills that will serve you well in future relationships.

4. Experiencing New Perspectives and Activities

Dating someone new always brings a chance to experience things from a different perspective. You might find yourself trying new activities, discovering new interests, and gaining a fresh outlook on life. It’s an opportunity to grow and expand your horizons.

5. Potential for a Genuine Connection

Just because it starts as a rebound doesn’t mean it can’t evolve into something more meaningful. [Read: Soul connection – what it means, 8 types and 16 signs to find it and recognize it]

Many relationships begin under less than ideal circumstances but grow into deep, lasting connections. Being open to the possibility of a genuine bond forming can be a positive aspect of being the rebound guy.

How to Avoid Being the Rebound Guy?

It’s easier said than done, but you can only avoid being the rebound guy if you spot the signs early on. The minute you know you’re the rebound guy, don’t hesitate to walk away. We know this wasn’t what you wanted to hear, but it’s true.

No matter how much you like her or adore her, the fact is she’s still hung over her ex. [Read: Foundations of a relationship that separate the good & the bad]

It’s also not your job to fix, save, or change her into someone ready to commit to you. You deserve someone who has your full attention and not someone whose heart is still beating for their ex.

So, if you want to avoid being the rebound guy, just walk away and find someone better. Don’t settle for less.

So, Are You the Rebound Guy?

It sucks to find out that you’re just a rebound guy. [Read: Timing is everything in a relationship – 30 secrets to get it right in love]

Realizing that your role is to cushion someone’s fall from a previous relationship can be a tough pill to swallow. You’re there, but not for the reasons you might have hoped for.

It’s a situation where emotions can get tangled, and expectations might not align. If you’re not cool with just being a temporary fix or if you find yourself developing serious feelings, it might be time for a frank conversation.

Remember, it’s not your responsibility to be someone’s emotional band-aid. The healthiest move might be to step back and end things.

After all, your emotional well-being is just as important. Being the rebound guy doesn’t have to be your story’s end – it can be a chapter that leads you to something more fulfilling.

[Read: 34 Signs the universe wants you to be with someone and the nudges of destiny]

So, here’s the big question: are you the rebound guy? If you are, we’ve all been there so you’re not alone in this. But you do need to stop hoping you’ll ever be something more.