It's entirely normal to feel hurt or emotional when you see an ex with someone else, even if you were the one who initiated the breakup and no longer want to be with them. This reaction is quite common and can be attributed to several factors:
Emotional Investment: During your relationship, you likely formed a strong emotional bond with your ex-partner. Even though you don't want to be with them anymore, the emotions and memories associated with the past can still resurface when you see them with someone new.
Lingering Feelings: Even if you consciously don't want to be in a relationship with your ex, there might still be lingering feelings or unresolved emotions that you haven't fully processed or come to terms with yet.
Comparisons: When you see your ex with someone else, you might find yourself comparing that new person to yourself, which can trigger feelings of insecurity or inadequacy.
Loss of Control: Seeing your ex move on can remind you that you no longer have control over their life or the choices they make, which can be a challenging reality to accept.
Nostalgia and Regret: Witnessing your ex with a new partner can bring back memories of the past and make you reflect on the relationship. You might wonder if things could have been different or if you made the right decision.
Fear of Being Replaced: The sight of your ex moving on may evoke a fear of being replaced or forgotten, even if you don't want to be together anymore.
Grief and Healing Process: Healing from a breakup is not always linear, and it's common to experience ups and downs in your emotions. Seeing your ex with someone new can be a reminder of the loss you experienced, and it might take more time to fully heal and move forward.
Remember that healing from a breakup is a process, and it's okay to take your time to process your emotions. Be patient with yourself and allow yourself to feel what you're feeling without judgment. If these feelings persist and significantly affect your well-being, consider talking to a therapist or counselor who can provide support and guidance throughout the healing process.