Male psychology during no contact Understand what they think and what actions they'll take during no contact. Together, they can be quite confusing. In this article, we Discover how the No Contact Rule affects male psychology. Sometimes it makes dumpers contact dumpees and talk about unimportant matters for hours, whereas other times, it doesn’t even pique their interest. But by understanding what happens in the male mind during no contact, it becomes easier to navigate. So let’s talk about how to use it responsibly—and what to keep in mind if you’re guiding someone through it. But does this work on emotionally unavailable men? These guys often have This video will help you understand male psychology during no contact, how absence works in your favor, and why silence is your strongest strategy. People tend to think that women are more complicated than men. Apr 14, 2025 · #matthewhussey #datingadvice #relationshipadvice #nocontactrule " [WHY MEN RETURN TO YOU AFTER NO CONTACT]" ‪@LoveMagnetology‬ 💔 He Disappeared… Then Came Back. By doing this you'll find that they end up missing you more. In this powerful and emotionally resonant 12-minute motivational speech, delivered in the bold and elegant tone of Priyanka Chopra, we dive deep into the psychology behind Why Men Return After No One of the scariest times in any relationship is during the “no contact” period with your boyfriend or man of your dreams. *** ∼ Brida Paulo Coelho Jan 2, 2019 · The Psychology Behind No Contact The real purpose of the No Contact Rule is to get YOURSELF back … not your Ex. Dive deep into its impact post-breakup, its efficacy, and common misconceptions. Learn exactly what your ex is thinking during the stages of no contact. But the question is, why do men come back after no contact? What is the no-contact male psychology? Sep 11, 2023 · Allow me to voice the question plaguing your mind – “What’s the no-contact rule female psychology? Will she miss me during no-contact?” You and I are going to take a little trip today. After spending the better part of a day outlining I Dec 8, 2023 · Conclusion In conclusion, the no contact rule can be a difficult time for both men and women. This article will delve into the intricate aspects of May 26, 2023 · The male mind during no contact During the initial phase of the no-contact rule, a man might feel unbothered, free, and independent. Aug 30, 2025 · But with men especially, the way no-contact is used (and received) can either open the door for real growth… or lock both people into another toxic loop. Aman Bhonsle (Ph. He also has various shocking thoughts which many women don’t realize would even exist in his head. If you do contact your ex, it’s okay; just try to return to "no contact" and keep moving forward. The no Implementing no contact at first may be motivated by a desire to end a relationship, a need for separation, or clarity. At the very start of the breakup, he was feeling powerful but now hes not. Keep in mind that while every guy reacts differently after a breakup, however, most experience similar emotions at some point. Emotional Reset One of the biggest benefits of No Contact is the emotional reset. Understand the deep emotional shifts men experience. Start now. Men go through various stages during this process, including panic, confusion, acceptance, rebuilding, and moving on. Finally, the no-contact rule male psychology can be a complex assembly of emotions that even the man will have a hard time understanding. This speech will help you: Understand if he secretly hopes you’ll reach out 💭 Decode male psychology during silence 🧠 Stop overthinking and regain emotional control 🔥 Use no contact to If you’re in a similar post-breakup stage, clarity about the psychology of a man during no contact might help. I know this channel is about using no contact to heal and get over the other person, but let’s be realistic, a lot of us are using no contact as a final desperate attempt to get them back. During the challenging post-breakup times, understanding the stages of the no contact rule can be your anchor: When you understand what's happening, your brain naturally reduces your stress levels. Sep 15, 2024 · Explore how the no contact rule affects men's emotions, behavior, and psychology. The lack of closure is what really gets to most since it’s troubling to not know the reasons behind the sudden discontinuation of contact. Whether he The no contact rule male psychology generally follows a similar pattern. Learn the right duration, what to do, and how to handle challenges. Feb 27, 2025 · Discover how to effectively implement the no contact rule to support emotional healing and personal growth after a breakup, with step-by-step guidance and psychological insights. This means: Sep 12, 2025 · While making a man move on is definitely one of the components of male psychology during no contact, there are also plenty of other steps/emotions he will feel and most likely get fixated upon. When the two combine, expect a reaction. 3 days ago · This video reveals the hidden truths of female psychology and heartbreak psychology when a man decides to walk away. Here, I'll show you EXACTLY what the no contact rule is, why it matters, and how to use it if you want to either move on from your heartbreak or have a hope of rekindling the relationship. Oct 9, 2024 · The emotional toll and lingering attachments can make it difficult to move forward. If you’re in a similar post-breakup stage, clarity about the psychology of a man during no contact might help. Then, I would like to use psychology to explain why Jul 30, 2025 · Read on to see how the male mind reacts during “no contact. Jun 16, 2021 · Interested in learning the psychology for your ex boyfriend during the no contact rule? The seven stages that they are going to go through? You came to the right place. Jun 17, 2025 · Does no contact work on men? People employ the no-contact rule for different reasons, including to get rid of their ex or to get their attention. Jun 4, 2025 · Understand no contact rule male psychology and how distance can make him miss, value, and chase you again. ” This article is based on an interview with our licensed clinical psychologist and relationship coach, Sarah Schewitz, founder of Couples Learn. That’s after you break up with someone you love, and despite all the love you still have for him, you decide to break […] No Contact Rule: Male Psychology During No Contact Read More » Exploring Male Psychology: 9 Stages & 22 Things that Go in Guy’s mind during the ‘No Contact Rule’ Updated January 29, 2024 by Callisto Adams 6 Comments Nov 8, 2023 · Previously, we discussed the male perspective during the no-contact rule and delved into what men need from their ex-girlfriends to find contentment. Unlock the secrets of male psychology during no contact and learn what goes on in his mind when you maintain distance! Intrigued? Apr 9, 2024 · Explore the fascinating dynamics of 'No Contact Rule Male Psychology' in our latest article. But Why? Watch THIS to Sep 14, 2024 · Explore the psychological foundations of the no contact rule, its emotional benefits, neurological effects, and long-term impacts on personal growth. Feb 8, 2021 · Without a doubt one of the most popular articles that I have ever written in the history of this site is my “male mind series. 41K subscribers Subscribe. ” All of these emotions can stir up a powerful desire to reestablish contact with an ex. In this Matthew Hussey motivational speech, you’ll discover the truth about how men think during silence, why no contact shifts the dynamic, and how your distance creates attraction and regret. Get your ex back. It’s a time full of emotions, and we’ve put together a thorough list of what he might feel while you’re giving him the silent treatment. Let’s explore exactly why this rule is so powerful. As Dr. , MBA Feb 27, 2025 · Discover how to effectively implement the no contact rule to support emotional healing and personal growth after a breakup, with step-by-step guidance and psychological insights. When implementing the no contact rule, there is no gray area–it means putting an immediate stop to any form of contact, no matter how hard that is to do. But does this work on emotionally unavailable men? These guys often have How to do the No Contact rule, what narcissists feel during No Contact, what their reaction could be and will they come back. Jan 4, 2023 · Today I'd like to go through exactly what an ex boyfriend is thinking during every single day of a no contact rule. When you understand the psychology behind No Contact, everything changes. A few stipulations though, I want to use the most common version of no contact, the 30 day rule, as a guinea pig. A guy goes through eight stages and has a number of shocking thoughts as he processes you being out of touch with him. Dumpers may struggle with feelings of relief, remorse, confusion, and reflection throughout the no-contact period. Oct 27, 2025 · Going "no contact" with your ex after a breakup helps you heal and move on. Unfortunately, no contact really only works for girls using it on guys. Dumpers frequently experience substantial emotional and mental development during this process. With insights from psychotherapist UDkt. By implementing the no contact rule male psychology, individuals aim to gain clarity and perspective after a breakup or during relationship issues. Learn how it aids emotional recovery and personal growth. The embarrassment of being removedThe embarrassment men feel when overlooked/cut off may be a sm No contact is the most effective way of defeating a narcissist. While making a man move on is definitely one of the components of male psychology during no contact, there are also plenty of other steps/emotions he will feel and most likely get fixated upon. That’s after you break up with someone you love, and despite all the love you still have for him, you decide to break […] No Contact Rule: Male Psychology During No Contact Read More » Oct 18, 2022 · Learn more about no contact and its stages, the psychology behind the no-contact rule and the 5 signs the no-contact rule is working. Sep 15, 2024 · Explore how the no contact rule affects female psychology post-breakup. Marketers have used this effect to dupe us into making horrible last-minute decisions for centuries. He contacts you out of the blues 7. 💕 no contact psychology, stages of no contact, what men feel Sep 28, 2023 · The no contact rule involves immediately stopping all forms of direct and in-direct communication with a toxic person. (1) (2) ” Essentially I took a concept like the no contact rule and took a deep dive into what a man was thinking during it and after it. marriage. When your phone keeps lighting up with messages or you obsessively check your ex’s social media, you remain emotionally tethered, making it nearly impossible to gain perspective. Discover what he thinks when you don't contact him and whether no contact really works on men. Now, here is the thing about the Jul 1, 2020 · You may want to take a look at the male psychology if you’re considering using the no contact rule after a breakup. How does silence play on the male psyche? Decode their thoughts and emotions during the no-contact phase. ” The Male Mind During No Contact The no-contact phase after a breakup also protects you from further heartache and trauma by shielding you from emotionally charged interactions. Learn why no contact strategy alone is not enough, and how male self Jun 20, 2025 · No contact vs radio silence If you want to use the power of silence after a breakup to your advantage, it also helps to understand the no contact after breakup psychology and how it’s different from radio silence. youtube. Sep 11, 2023 · What is the no-contact rule? Well, the stages of no-contact demand that you cut off all exposure and association with your ex in your life. This is why men respond to silence and distance. Mar 5, 2018 · The psychology of no contact on male dumper works like this. Guy Winch notes, “By halting all contact, you minimize the triggers that prolong emotional suffering, giving yourself time to rediscover self-worth and rebuild self-esteem. Oct 24, 2024 · Explore 7 surprising stages of male psychology during the no-contact rule. It is during such trying times that the psychology behind the “no contact” rule often comes into play. Your ex needs peace, quiet, respect, and self-respect because these things give her a sense of freedom and power. Jul 30, 2025 · For most guys, a “no contact” period will make them realize how much they care about you or make them jealous, confused, or remorseful. The 8 stages of no contact rule male psychology are discussed in this article. He’ll try to find out what exactly changed, mostly if he’s used to you calling first or responding immediately to his messages. Jun 9, 2025 · But why do men come back after no contact? Explaining the state of the male mind after no contact, psychotherapist Dr. But it's not as easy as it seems! Here are the biggest mistakes to avoid. And when he eventually stops feeling relieved, he also stops feeling smothered by the negative image he'd created of you and becomes capable of becoming curious about you, missing you, and getting hurt. May 24, 2021 · Stages of no contact may not seem easy to go through but you have to face them. Jun 2, 2022 · But it has to be under one condition: you have to make it through at least 30 days without any contact whatsoever, otherwise it will all be worthless. Whether your objective is to rekindle a past relationship or focus on personal healing, comprehending the power of this rule is essential. The post-breakup period is crucial for both of you. May 2, 2019 · Does the no contact rule work on men and will it work to get your boyfriend back? Coach Lee explains the no contact rule with male psychology in this article. What happens when you break no contact first 8. TikTok video from Dating mindset (@dating. However, today I'd like to talk about a few of the statistically inconsistencies I've noticed with my research. At first, he may appear confident, even dismissive, but as the days turn into weeks Dec 4, 2022 · The no-contact rule male psychology forces him to recognize his loneliness. Jun 24, 2025 · If you contact them earlier than you plan to, it may be difficult to determine if there are signs the no contact rule is working. We’ll traverse the landscape of the female mind during no-contact rule, and in the process, you’ll get to know her thoughts, emotions, and plan of Jun 20, 2025 · That’s why it’s imperative to follow the no-contact rule timeline religiously, without allowing yourself to fall off the wagon of self-control. The male psychology NO CONTACT rule is difficult to start, but once you and your ex both agree to stop interacting with each other (and yes social media counts!) it’s an easy concept to understand. ” The Male Mind During No Contact May 12, 2025 · Wondering about the no-contact rule in male psychology? What you need to know according to relationship psychologists, and mistakes to avoid What Is the No Contact Rule? Oct 5, 2021 · What Is the No Contact Rule? The no contact rule is pretty self-explanatory: it is a period of time that you take to cut all ties with your ex, allowing you both to have the time and space that you need to process your breakup. This time, you Discover why the No Contact Rule works after a breakup. But, with time, the loneliness and guilt pang will start to kick in. The no contact rule + male psychology is a cataclysmic combination. Aug 30, 2025 · How Men Tend to React During No Contact If you’ve ever watched a man go through the no-contact experience from the outside—maybe as a therapist, a coach, or even just a close observer—you’ve probably seen this: a curious blend of posturing, confusion, and emotional churn. 🔗 Full video here:https://www. Related Reading: The 7 Components Of Male Psychology During No-Contact Rule – Backed By An Expert How Long Does The No-Contact Rule Take To Work? May 28, 2023 · Discover the chemical, neural, and emotional changes that occur when you go no contact and cut off communication with your ex. As time passes, you’ll eventually figure out whether you want to get back or Jun 5, 2025 · Does No Contact Actually Help You Heal? 1. Jul 5, 2019 · The Psychology OF A Man During The No Contact Rule In this video, we’re going to be talking about the psychology of a man during the No Contact Rule Calm and assured of their decision Feb 11, 2021 · What is my ex thinking during the no contact rule? It's a question that haunts you. In reality, however, no major differences exist in how the no contact rule affects the male and female mind. #NoContactRule #MalePsychology #BreakupInsights #SecretBehavior”. Aman Bhonsle told Bonobology, “ A man might go through anger, humiliation, and fear, sometimes all at once, during the no-contact phase. Learn effective strategies for emotional healing and personal growth. After a breakup, if you stop contacting him, he will feel free and enjoy this phase as much as he can. Today, we shift our focus to the female mind during this period. This is partly why there is so much What really goes through a man’s mind when you suddenly go silent? 🤐 In this motivational video inspired by Steve Harvey’s straight-talk style, we break down the psychology of men during no In this powerful video, we reveal the psychological truth of what really happens to him weeks after no contact. Want to know what's going through a man's head when he goes no contact? This article breaks down the male psychology during no contact. After all, the no-contact rule after break up is a time-tested psychological strategy used to move on from one’s ex. Understand the psychological responses and behavioral patterns of men during the no contact period post-breakup. The no-contact phase after a breakup also protects you from further heartache and trauma by shielding you from emotionally charged interactions. ‘Why isn’t she calling already?’ Most men’s first reaction to the no contact rule is confusion; they initially spend some time trying to wrap their heads around everything. Jun 11, 2021 · Defining The No Contact Rule: A period of time where you purposefully ignore your ex with the intent of outgrowing them. With insights from psychotherapist Dr. Sep 17, 2022 · It’s this sort of artificial complexity from which the “female/male no contact psychology” question stems from. One of the scariest times in any relationship is during the “no contact” period with your boyfriend or man of your dreams. That's the only way you can move on after a breakup. This article is about what your ex is going through, but I have a dedicated article about the stages of no contact for the person who was left. Here are the 3 painful stages of no contact for the dumpee. Oct 22, 2023 · Does no contact work after a breakup? The short answer is yes. And one of the many questions answered in this epic article. Understand the stages, cognitive processes, and long-term effects on male mindset. How to make a man miss you during no contact | Psychological reasons why a man will not reach out to you during no contact and why you should never break no contact first original sound - yourrelationshipbestie_. He might enjoy his first week as a single man, feeling a sense of relief from the stress of a relationship or breakup. It doesn’t work because your space-deprived ex needs more than time to think things through. Mar 26, 2022 · No contact Rule Male Psychology : 8 Stages No contact rule male psychology is based on the belief that if you avoid all contact with your ex for a set amount of time after the breakup, they will come back to you. We use cookies to make wikiHow great. Sep 11, 2023 · Before we talk about what no contact does to a man, let’s make sure we’re on the same page about what the no-contact rule entails and how it works. Regardless of the result, one thing is sure – the no-contact male psychology works most of the time. Mar 5, 2018 · The male psychology during the no contact rule works in mysterious ways. 🔥 DESCRIPTION: In this eye-opening video inspired by Matthew Hussey’s powerful insights, we break down exactly what a man does right before he tries to come back into your life. Sep 15, 2024 · Explore the psychological benefits and challenges of the no contact rule after a breakup. May 8, 2022 · Meta description: When people ask about what to do after a breakup, there's a common piece of advice called the "no contact" rule. Nov 11, 2023 · The no-contact rule is a widely discussed strategy in relationships, and its effects on male psychology have become a topic of fascination for many. How men react to no contact 9. The longer you leave the dumper alone, the more space and time you give him to feel relieved. Understand male psychology during no contact Learn how to pass his tests with ease Gain emotional strength & feminine confidence Stop chasing — and make him value your presence Discover when to Feb 7, 2021 · Complete guide for how the dumper feels when you use no contact on them. Let’s begin by looking at the radio silence meaning – you go out of communication and are unreachable. mindset0): “Discover 4 key thoughts men have during no contact after a breakup and what they reveal about male psychology. Nov 3, 2023 · When examining the No Contact Rule through the lens of male psychology, it becomes evident that this strategy holds significant potential for post-breakup outcomes. Learn to embrace self-care, maintain emotional balance, and promote personal growth. Feb 19, 2025 · Key Takeaways: Silence drives emotional clarity No contact protects self-respect Secure attachment requires boundaries Anxiety decreases with healthy distance Consistency breaks the habit loop The No Contact Strategy Many people consider no contact after a breakup or during a tumultuous relationship, yet they feel guilty, conflicted, or downright terrified about taking that step. Oct 27, 2025 · 11 Things That Go Through The Male Mind During No Contact Rule 1. Jun 24, 2025 · Discover how to stay strong while maintaining the no contact rule. No calls, no messages, no ‘accidentally’ bumping into them, no endless checking on their social media, no reading old letters, and no wishing them on birthdays or anniversaries. Specifically I have found that there are six main stages a dumper will experience if they are on the receiving end of no contact. This video will help you understand male psychology during no contact, how absence works in your favor, and why silence is your strongest strategy. The No contact technique is so effective because of a powerful psychological effect. Jun 6, 2024 · The no-contact rule means cutting off all communication with someone to give them space and see things more clearly. Learn male psychology secrets that make him text first every time. As psychologist Dr. Nov 12, 2020 · The psychology of the no contact rule on the dumper and your ex is powerful and can help you to get your ex back after a breakup. No contact mistakes women make 10. Does the no-contact rule work on men? Will no contact make him move on or miss you more? What goes on in a man’s mind during no contact? If these questions have been on your mind since you hit the block button, it’s time to delve deeper into this much-talked-about psychological strategy for dealing with complex emotions. Mar 5, 2018 · No contact female psychology As you likely already know, the 30, 45, or 60-day no contact rule is a hoax. Aug 18, 2023 · Today I'm going to do a deep dive into the psychology behind a no contact rule. May 5, 2021 · The no contact rule and the female psychology behind it are two very complicated concepts. It is an effective approach to physically and emotionally distancing yourself from the person to give yourself the space to heal. Aug 27, 2024 · Explore the psychological benefits of the no contact rule, how long it takes to work, and why it's a powerful tool for emotional healing and personal growth. It doesn’t even sound offensive anymore but is rather a joke… To understand male psychology during no contact To learn how to handle emotional tests with confidence To stop overthinking and start thinking from a place of strength To build self-worth and Sep 12, 2025 · If you’re in a similar post-breakup stage, clarity about the psychology of a man during no contact might help. com/watch?v=8BJBgUpFqVU🧠 Want the full breakdown? Check out the https://www. D. Yes, everything. Through the application of a psychological framework to analyze their actions and behavioral shifts, men's emotional processing, relationship management, and eventual evolution following the Oct 20, 2023 · Wondering about the no-contact rule in male psychology? What you need to know according to relationship psychologists, and mistakes to avoid Jun 5, 2025 · Does No Contact Actually Help You Heal? 1. No, I've talked about this quite a bit over the years. NO CONTACT PSYCHOLOGY: What’s GOING ON IN HER MIND Right NOW | ESTHER PEREL motivational speech MINDSET VAULT 2. It’s maybe common that girls are the first ones to shed a tear, but it’s not always the case. By removing these triggers, you calm the constant cortisol rush associated with heartbreak Aug 25, 2024 · Explore the male mind after no contact. Sep 15, 2024 · Explore how no contact affects female dumpers psychologically, influencing emotions, decision-making, and long-term relationship dynamics post-breakup. To understand male psychology during no contact To learn how to handle emotional tests with confidence To stop overthinking and start thinking from a place of strength To build self-worth and Sep 11, 2023 · Does the no-contact rule work on men? Will no contact make him move on or miss you more? What goes on in a man’s mind during no contact? If these questions have been on your mind since you hit the block button, it’s time to delve deeper into this much-talked-about psychological strategy for dealing with complex emotions. Here’s everything you need to know about no contact rule male psychology. 4K Likes, 118 Comments. Feb 22, 2022 · Exploring male psychology during the no contact rule Don’t think you’re the only one crying over your heartbreak. They say that if you go cold turkey on your ex, take some time to process the breakup alone, and allow yourself to really grieve, then the heartbreak is much easier to deal with — over time, of course. May 24, 2023 · The no-contact phase after a breakup also protects you from further heartache and trauma by shielding you from emotionally charged interactions. The no contact rule is highly recommended after a break-up, especially if you’re hoping to get your ex back. The 7 Components Of Male Psychology During No-Contact Rule1. Unearth their side of the story! Essentially, studying male psychology during the time after no contact provides important information about their inner conflicts and coping strategies. 34. You also make sure you remove every sign of your ex from Does the no-contact rule work on men? Will no contact make him move on or miss you more? What goes on in a man’s mind during no contact? If these questions have been on your mind since you hit the block button, it’s time to delve deeper into this much-talked-about psychological strategy for dealing with complex emotions. In this powerful and emotionally resonant 12-minute motivational speech, delivered in the bold and elegant tone of Priyanka Chopra, we dive deep into the psychology behind Why Men Return After No Because the power of no contact isn’t about punishing him — it’s about reclaiming your worth and watching him realize it too. Women seemed to like to know what is going on in the head of their ex boyfriends, go figure. However, as time goes on, his mind may begin to change. The no-contact rule is a psychological strategy used to cope with and recover from a breakup or heartbreak. Check out the full interview here. It’s a stereotype that has its roots deeply carved in society. In this video, we uncover the truth about no contact male psychology—what he feels, what he hides, and how the emotional stages play out, especially if he was the one who walked away. Feb 8, 2021 · Our complete guide to the psychology of a man during no contact. When you’re in no contact with a man, he tends to go through a number of stages. By removing these triggers, you calm the constant cortisol rush associated with heartbreak What do guys go through during No Contact ? Guys of reddit, what are the things you did or went through during no contact that your ex had no idea and made you realise you made a mistake. Jul 27, 2020 · No Contact Rule Male Psychology 7 Signs The No Contact Rule is Working Step-by-Step Process to Implement the No-Contact Rule 5 Types of No Contact Rule Male Psychology and the No Contact Rule – Why do Men Come Back? Tips and suggestions Male Psychology and the No Contact Rule – Why do Men Come Back? ***True love allows each person to follow his or her own path, aware that doing so can never drive them apart. However, the way this rule impacts the male mind remains a mystery to many. Discover 7 psychology-backed ways to make him miss you during no contact. Apr 22, 2022 · Today we’re going to talk about the no contact rule and the psychology it has on the dumper. , MBA There haven’t been any large-scale, scientific studies on the psychology of the 30 Day No Contact Rule. The no contact rule is a widely employed strategy that involves cutting off all forms of communication with an ex-partner. Jennifer Jacobsen, PhD in Psychology, explains The no contact rule gives you complete distance from your former partner, so you can process your emotions and see what life is like without them. The truth is — and I’ve been preaching this for over 12 years — that following the rule is an essential precondition to healing from a breakup or Finally, the no-contact rule male psychology can be a complex assembly of emotions that even the man will have a hard time understanding. com/advice/relationship/no-conta Apr 14, 2025 · They didn’t understand that No Contact isn’t the goal itself but a strategic step toward rebuilding a real relationship – not sliding back into a confusing situationship, friends-with-benefits, or that exhausting on-again/off-again cycle. The no contact rule male psychology generally follows a similar pattern. Everything you need to get your man back on your side is the no contact rule and male psychology—or in other words, you need their way of thinking. Though it can be difficult, deciding to cut off contact can bring you peace and relief Nov 8, 2023 · Previously, we discussed the male perspective during the no-contact rule and delved into what men need from their ex-girlfriends to find contentment. While most people already know how important the rule is for their recovery, they nonetheless look for loopholes to break it. ” The Male Mind During No Contact Jan 26, 2024 · Are you getting cold feet about your “no contact” phase? These answers can ease your concerns and help you self-prepare and self-support. The "no contact" rule means no calls, texts, or social media, and not asking friends about your ex.