‘How do I move on from someone I still love?’

Relationships are one of the most significant sources of joy, confusion, pride, doubt and curiosity in people’s lives, and when questions arise, many of us turn straight to the internet for answers. This year, search trends show that people are trying to understand not just how love works, but also how to navigate modern relationship challenges, define boundaries, and make sense of emotional uncertainty. These, according to ChatGPT, are based on recurring patterns across thousands of conversations and high-frequency themes users bring up.
As we look back at the year in relationships, here are the six most common questions people asked about love, dating, and emotional well-being on ChatGPT, answered an expert.
1. How do I know if my partner is right for me?
Sonal Khangarot, licensed rehabilitation counsellor and psychotherap, The Answer Room, tells , “A partner is right for you when the relationship feels steady, emotionally safe, and not confusing. For example, if you can admit a make and your partner responds with understanding rather than criticism, it shows emotional security. The right relationship respects your boundaries, supports your growth, and allows you to be yourself without fear or pressure.”
2. Why is my partner pulling away?
Emotional withdrawal usually comes from overwhelm, unspoken needs, or personal stress rather than lack of love.
“For example, if their regular long conversations suddenly shift to short, dracted replies, it may reflect internal overload, not rejection. Approaching the change with calm curiosity instead of blame helps rebuild clarity and emotional safety before assumptions take over,” states Khangarot.
3. Is this considered cheating?
Cheating today includes emotional secrecy and digital behaviours, not just physical actions. For example, if you would feel uncomfortable showing a particular chat to your partner, the secrecy itself suggests a boundary has been crossed.Story continues below this ad
Khangarot notes that healthy relationships define fidelity together through open discussions, not assumptions, because trust is built on honesty and mutual expectations.
4. How do I communicate better without starting an argument?
Healthy communication depends on regulation, timing, and tone more than perfect wording. Saying ‘I felt hurt yesterday’ keeps the focus on your experience, whereas ‘You never len’ triggers defensiveness.
Khangarot suggests, “Speak when calm, stay curious, and address behaviour rather than character. When both partners feel safe, conversations stay constructive instead of escalating.”
5. How do I move on from someone I still love?
“Moving on is about accepting the relationship no longer supports your emotional well-being,” says Khangarot adding that if revisiting old photos pulls you back into longing and self-doubt, it’s a sign you need firmer boundaries with memories.Story continues below this ad
Healing happens in waves, not stages. Rebuild routines, reconnect with neglected parts of yourself, and let your identity grow beyond the relationship.
6. Am I the problem, or is this relationship unhealthy?
Khangarot reflects, “This question shows self-awareness, not guilt. For example, if you find yourself apologising for things you didn’t do just to keep the peace, the dynamic may be affecting your sense of self.”
Notice whether you feel anxious, silenced, or consently blamed. “At the same time, reflect on your own patterns and attachment triggers. A healthy relationship allows shared accountability, not one-sided burden,” concludes the expert.
