Experiencing strong emotions, including sadness and hurt, in a situation like this is not uncommon. Let's break down some possible reasons why you might be feeling this way:
Regret and guilt: It's possible that you're feeling regretful and guilty about how you initially treated him, which could be contributing to your emotional response now. Recognizing that you may have hurt someone in the past can be difficult and can lead to feelings of sadness.
Reversal of roles: Seeing him treat you the way you treated him might be a stark reminder of your past actions. This role reversal can evoke empathy and make you reflect on your behavior, adding to your emotional distress.
Unresolved feelings: Even though you may not have wanted him initially, spending time with someone and being in a relationship, even a casual one, can create emotional connections. Unresolved feelings from that time might be resurfacing now that he is treating you similarly.
Desire for validation: Being treated in a similar way as you treated him might trigger a desire for validation or acknowledgment of your past actions. You may be seeking empathy and understanding from him, which could be a source of emotional turmoil.
Fear of being alone: Sometimes, when we see someone moving away from us or treating us poorly, it can trigger a fear of being alone or abandoned, even if we didn't want that person in the first place.
Emotional investment: Despite not wanting him initially, you might have invested emotions and time into the relationship, and seeing it end or change negatively can still be distressing.
It's important to recognize that our emotions can be complex and not always rational. You have every right to feel hurt and upset, even if the relationship wasn't what you initially desired. Acknowledging your feelings and giving yourself space to process them is essential for emotional well-being.
Here are some steps you can consider taking to cope with these emotions:
Reflect on your feelings: Take some time to understand why you are feeling this way and explore any unresolved emotions from your past interactions.
Practice self-compassion: Be kind to yourself and acknowledge that it's okay to feel the way you do. Don't judge yourself for having these emotions.
Communicate your feelings: If you feel comfortable, consider having an open and honest conversation with him about how his behavior is impacting you.
Seek support: Talk to friends or family members you trust about your feelings. Sometimes, sharing our emotions with others can provide comfort and understanding.
Learn from the experience: Use this situation as an opportunity for growth and self-awareness. Reflect on how you can handle relationships and interactions differently in the future.
Consider professional help: If you find that these emotions are overwhelming or persisting, speaking with a therapist can provide valuable support and guidance.
Remember, it's natural to feel hurt when treated poorly, even if you