The situation you describe can indeed be confusing, and there could be various reasons for the guy's behavior. It's essential to remember that people's feelings and motivations can be complex and multifaceted. Here are a few possible explanations for his actions:
He values your friendship: Even though he expressed a desire to work on himself and not be in a relationship, he may still value your friendship and care about your well-being. Reaching out to wish you good luck on your test could be a way of showing that he still wants to be supportive and maintain a positive connection with you.
Mixed feelings: It's possible that he genuinely wants to work on himself and take a break from romantic relationships, but at the same time, he might have lingering feelings for you. Reaching out could be an indication that he's struggling to completely sever the emotional ties and wants to stay in touch in some capacity.
Feeling guilty: Sometimes, people might feel guilty about ending a romantic relationship or expressing their need for space. As a result, they might try to alleviate their guilt by showing kindness and consideration, like reaching out to wish you well on your test.
Regret or uncertainty: He might be experiencing some regret about his decision to take time for himself and might be unsure about what he truly wants. Reaching out could be a way for him to test the waters and see if there's still a possibility of reconciliation or if his feelings have changed.
Wanting to remain on good terms: Even if he wants time to work on himself, he might want to remain on good terms with you. Keeping communication open and showing respect and support can help maintain a positive connection for the future.
Genuine care: Regardless of the relationship status, he might genuinely care about you as a person. Wishing you good luck on your test could be a reflection of his concern for your happiness and success.
It's important to approach the situation with an open mind and consider your feelings as well. If you find his actions confusing or if you're unsure about your own feelings, it may be beneficial to have an honest conversation with him. Communicating openly can help clarify intentions and expectations, leading to a better understanding of where both of you stand.
Ultimately, if he has expressed a desire to work on himself and not be in a relationship, it's essential to respect his wishes and give him the space he needs. Focus on your own well-being and personal growth, and if the timing is right in the future, you can reassess your connection with him.