The first hours or even days might be hard, but you’re giving him the chance to do some self-reflection. He will be forced to sit with his thoughts and ponder why you’re ignoring him, which will lead to him realizing what he did wrong. [2] X Research source

Give straight answers that require no explanation. Blunt answers like “okay,” “nah,” and “fine” show that you’re listening but don’t want to engage in a full conversation. Your voice matters, so show him how valuable you are by removing yourself from detailed conversations. If he texts you “How are you?” respond with a 👍 or a short “Ok. ”

By seeing that you read his message but didn’t respond, he will wonder why you’re not talking to him and if he could have done something to hurt you. Only respond if he has a question you alone can answer, especially if it has to do with child care or finances. Wait a couple of hours before hitting that redial button so he knows you’re still mad. Changing his ringtone can help you be prepared when he calls. Instead of scrambling to find your phone when it rings, you can let it go to voicemail when you hear his ringtone.

You are worthy of his attention, and by ignoring him, you’re showing him what he’ll miss out on if you leave. Engage with other friends on social media when you start to miss him. Save the posts that made you think of him during your time apart. After he’s learned his lesson, you can send them his way!

You can teach him a valuable lesson by just being out of the equation. Give him time to question what he’s done, and let him realize how much he misses you when you’re not there.

He’ll start missing you when you continue living your life without him. This will motivate him to reflect on why you’re ignoring him, and, who knows, maybe he’s hurting just as much as you. [8] X Research source

Invite some guy friends over for a movie night or go to a sporting event together. Post a group picture on social media to show your boyfriend how much fun you’re having! Be careful not to be overly flirtatious. You don’t want to give your boyfriend the impression that you’re cheating. Keep it cool and casual. Remember that he’ll come after you if he wants to. You are an amazing and beautiful person. If he can’t see that, he’s not worth your time!

He might find it hard taking the first step, so be patient with him. Maybe he texts you asking if you can meet him somewhere, or he slowly steps into the room waiting for the right moment. Let him come in his own time, and listen to everything he has to say.

Taking care of yourself is always important, especially when it comes to needing to teach your man a lesson. Your needs can come before his. Post photos on social media of your solo adventures. Teach your boyfriend that you can have just as much fun without him!

A small dose of jealousy can be good for him! Jealousy helps people look at the world with a new perspective. Seeing you having fun with friends without him can help him realize he made a mistake and motivate him to make a change. [12] X Research source

If you’ve always wanted to wake up early to go on a morning hike, do it! Do the things you’ve always wanted to do as if he weren’t there. This will teach him that you are worthy of his attention. He will start to miss being a part of your daily routine and want to make amends to be back in your life.

Your feelings are valid, and no one should make you think otherwise. If he truly cares for you, he will listen.