First, you hate her. Then, you judge her. Then, you like her—and then you love her? We’ve all been there, and we all know what it’s like to go from fearing your ex’s new girlfriend to maybe even being her BFF. (Yes, it’s possible.)
Here, we’ve broken down the six stages of getting to know the new woman in your former man’s life.
1. The Initial Shock
You’ve secretly hoped this moment would never arrive or that you’d be dating someone else by the time it did: Your ex posts a pic with a new girl. He mentions her in the caption, and you immediately click on her profile. She’s got so many selfies on her Instagram, she makes Kim Kardashian seem camera-shy. And is her skin really that perfect, or is she a filter wizard? You consult approximately three to four girlfriends to confirm whether she’s attractive. Of course, they all say you’re way hotter.
2. The Semi-Creepy Stalking
You do a thorough Internet sweep of her entire life. By the time you’re done, you’ve got a rough history of her employment, favorite vacation destinations and various haircuts over the years. You also know her preference for cats over dogs. You determine the current pixie cut she’s sporting isn’t her best look, but you are slightly annoyed that she seems to be pulling it off regardless. And, ugh, he’s dating a cat person?
3. The Inevitable Run-In
You meet her at a party, and she seems kind of nice. Key words: kind of. So she has a great smile and is a good conversationalist. You guess that short haircut really does suit her. And turns out, she’s actually gorgeousand actually a filter wizard (she’s a photographer). Your ex is practically glowing when he introduces you and you can’t help but acknowledge she’s a little pretty. She mentions you have a mutual friend in common with her (okay, let’s get real, you already knew that from the aforementioned stalking session) then says this friend speaks very highly of you. New girl tells you you’re in great shape and that you might like this exercise class she does
4. The Potentially Awkward Bonding Sesh
You and new girl hit a yoga class together. Obviously, there are other places you can work out, but you’ve been meaning to check this gym out anyway, and she was nice enough to compliment your physique and invite you—so you might as well go. Then, you get lunch after class so you can really see if her personality is as good as it seems…and find yourself bonding over favorite workout-gear brands, common celebrity crushes, and making fun of your ex’s bad driving.
5. The Unexpected Bestie Bond
You’re socializing every weekend. Soon, new girl is trying to set you up with some of her guy friends. You are texting nonstop and getting mani-pedis every other Wednesday. You two regularly meet for happy hour, and sometimes your ex tags along, too. He’s even getting a little jealous of how much time his gal is spending with you. Who’s the third wheel here—you or him?!
6. The Wedding?!
So…you’re giving a toast at their wedding? You’re a bridesmaid in your exand new girl’s wedding! As you give your toast, everyone laughs at the background story about you and your BFF, the bride. Next up: godmother to their first child. Wow, you’re a real champion of the people.
Source: womenshealthmag.com
