On Purpose with Jay Shetty On Purpose with Jay Shetty

Still Thinking About Your Ex? (Use This 2-Step Reset to Stop the Spiral for Good!)

May 15, 2026 · 30m

Summary

This episode explores the neuroscience behind romanticizing ex-partners, explaining how the brain edits memories and triggers dopamine withdrawal. The host provides practical tools to interrupt this spiral, including strict no-contact, pattern interruption, and rebuilding independent identity. By distinguishing between genuine grief and the illusion of a perfect past, listeners learn to heal attachment wounds and embrace the freedom of moving forward.

Topics discussed

Intro ads: Grainger, Disney Cruise Line, Home Depot The 3 AM spiral: Romanticizing your ex Neuroscience of memory distortion and editing Breakup as addiction: Reward prediction error The highlight reel fallacy and relationship reality Attachment theory: Root causes of romantic grief Groundlessness and the illusion of solid ground Mono no aware: Accepting impermanence Mid-roll ads: Ryobi, IBM, Zanobio Tool 1: The neurological necessity of no contact Tool 2: The full picture exercise Tool 3: Pattern interruption and naming emotions Tool 4: Rebuilding self-concept and identity Tool 5: Letting grief move through you Outro ads: Coca-Cola, Marriott, Disney
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