Yes, it's entirely possible for people to forget about their exes after years of no contact. Time has a way of fading memories and emotions, especially when there is no ongoing reminder or interaction with the person.
There are several reasons why someone might eventually forget about their ex:
Time heals: As time passes, the intensity of emotions related to the past relationship tends to diminish. People move on with their lives, and new experiences and relationships take center stage.
New experiences: Engaging in new activities, meeting new people, and forming new connections can shift a person's focus away from their past relationships.
Cognitive dissonance: To cope with a breakup and adapt to life without their ex, some individuals might unconsciously suppress memories of the past relationship.
Change of perspective: As people grow and mature, their outlook on past experiences can change. What might have been significant and impactful in the past might lose its importance as life progresses.
Emotional detachment: When there is no contact with an ex for an extended period, emotional ties gradually weaken, leading to diminished feelings and memories.
No reminders: Not hearing from or seeing the ex means there are no ongoing reminders of the past relationship. This lack of contact can make it easier to move on and forget.
New relationships: Starting a new romantic relationship can significantly influence a person's emotional attachment to past partners. Being in love with someone new can reduce thoughts and feelings about previous relationships.
However, it's important to note that while many people can forget about their exes over time, some individuals might retain certain memories or feelings. Each person's experience is unique, and factors like the duration and intensity of the past relationship, the reasons for the breakup, and individual coping mechanisms can all play a role in how someone processes and eventually forgets about an ex.
If you find yourself struggling to move on or are bothered by memories of an ex from years ago, consider seeking support from friends, family, or a mental health professional. They can help you navigate your feelings and provide guidance on how to move forward in a healthy way.