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Jealousy is something most of us have faced in a relationship, but what about jealousy tied to your partner’s past? That’s retroactive jealousy—a type of insecurity or anxiety focused on your partner’s previous relationships or experiences.

Have you ever found yourself:

  • Comparing yourself to your partner’s exes?

  • Feeling uneasy about their dating history?

  • Worrying about how you measure up?

Don’t worry—you’re not alone, and it’s something you can overcome! Retroactive jealousy often stems from common causes like low self-esteem, differing expectations, fear of rejection, or even trust issues from past relationships. But the good news? You can take steps to move past these feelings.

Here’s How to Overcome Retroactive Jealousy

Retroactive jealousy can feel overwhelming, but there are practical steps you can take to regain control and refocus on the present. Here's how:

1. Talk It Out

Open and honest communication with your partner is key. Sharing your feelings helps them understand what you’re going through and creates space for reassurance. Start by saying:

  • “I know these feelings aren’t fair, but I’d like to talk about what’s on my mind.”
    By being vulnerable, you invite your partner to support you instead of unintentionally shutting them out.

2. Challenge Intrusive Thoughts

When thoughts about your partner’s past creep in, pause and evaluate them:

  • Is there actual proof for these thoughts, or are they based on assumptions?

  • How much of this is influenced by insecurity rather than reality?
    Replace these thoughts with affirmations:

  • “My partner chose to be with me because of who I am today.”

3. Focus on the Present

Remind yourself that your partner’s past doesn’t define your current relationship. When intrusive thoughts arise, redirect your attention to the wonderful moments you share now. Celebrate the things that make your relationship strong:

  • Inside jokes

  • Shared hobbies

  • Future plans

4. Practice Self-Care

A healthy mindset starts with taking care of yourself. Boost your confidence and emotional resilience by:

  • Exercising regularly to reduce stress and improve mood.

  • Journaling to express and process your emotions.

  • Surrounding yourself with supportive friends and positive influences.

5. Seek Professional Help

If these feelings persist, reaching out to a therapist can make a significant difference. A professional can help you unpack the deeper issues behind retroactive jealousy and provide strategies tailored to your needs. Therapy isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a powerful step toward personal growth and healing.

Bonus Tip: Strengthen Your Relationship Together

Retroactive jealousy thrives on insecurity, but building a stronger connection with your partner can help counteract those feelings. Download the Couply app for tools like relationship quizzes, expert advice, and fun activities to deepen your bond.

Remember:


Connect with the creator of Couply

Hey I’m Tim, the creator of Couply! I’m working as hard as I can with our small team to make a big difference in your romantic lives. I’d love to hear from you. You can hit me up with feature ideas, improvements or to say hi. Just drop me a note below, which links to my email address. 🙏