When your ex shows up in your life trying to win you back, it's easy to wonder why. Regardless of who ended the relationship, you'll probably spent some time wondering what could have been if it hadn't ended.

To get to the bottom of this question, we asked men to anonymously share the reasons why they want to get back together with their ex. Here's what they said:

1. Because she's the most beautiful thing to ever exist

Some men want their exes back because they believe they will never find someone better.

2. So I can treat her the way I promised to (but failed)

There's some truth to the lyrics "only know you love her when you let her go." Some men don't realize what they lost until it's gone, and then they're able to see in hindsight everything they did wrong.

3. I miss her friends

Getting back together with an ex may not be about her at all. Some guys want to restart their relationship because they're lonely and miss being a part of their ex's group of friends.

4. Because she laughed at my jokes

Sometimes all a guy wants is a little ego boost. He loved how his ex made him feel about himself, and he wants it back.

5. She had the cutest sneeze

Many men said they missed specific things about their ex. These characteristics are so unique that they don't expect to find them in any other woman, and they don't realize how much they end up missing it.

6. It's easy to idealize the best of a relationship when you're not in it

Sometimes he just remembers the best pieces and forgets about all the reasons for breaking up. (Maybe sometimes you do that, too.)

7. She's my best friend

Maybe he knows that he and his ex ended their relationship for a reason but, at the same time, it's hard to break up with both your girlfriend and your best friend in one go.

8. Getting back together is better than facing rejection

Many guys admit that the idea of getting back in the dating field and risking rejection sounds too painful to be worth it. They decided that, rather than taking that risk, they'd rather get back together with their ex.

9. I miss cuddling with her

Men are physical creatures. You'd be surprised how many men miss the physical intimacy that comes with a relationship.

10. Being "just friends" is too hard

Some people don't think it's possible for exes to be friends, but that doesn't stop some of them from trying. In the end, however, many men decide being friends is just too hard. If the options are get back together or just stop being friends altogether, the former seems more appealing.

11. I hate seeing her with someone else

Some men don't realize what they had with a girl until they see someone else with her. Jealousy can stir up a whirl of emotions, and sometimes it can remind a man that he still has feelings for his ex.

12. It's familiar

Many guys admit that they want their ex back because new relationships are different than what they're used to. They crave the comfort of familiarity.

13. I miss having someone there for me - no matter what

Being with someone offers security. Some men miss having someone in their life who they can always count on when they need support.

14. She took care of me

After the split, you're suddenly left to take care of yourself, which can be new and difficult. It's hard to be separated from someone who offered you such tender love and care.

15. We were soul mates

Some men want their exes back because they genuinely think they were meant to be. It's hard to move on to someone else when you believe your ex is your soul mate.