Nina Dobrev: How to Maintain Healthy Friendships With Your Ex
The start of 2026 has brought a masterclass in emotional maturity from Hollywood. In a series of social media updates shared on January 6, 2026, actress Nina Dobrev was seen celebrating the New Year in St. Barts alongside her former boyfriend, Glen Powell, and his current partner, Michelle Randolph. For many following the news, the primary question is how to maintain healthy friendships with your ex after a significant life change. This public display of “friendship goals” comes just months after Dobrev’s high-profile split from fiancé Shaun White in September 2025, signaling a healthy shift toward emotional resilience.
Quick Takeaways
- What Happened: Nina Dobrev vacationed in St. Barts with ex Glen Powell and his girlfriend, Michelle Randolph.
- Why it Matters: It demonstrates a “modern friendship” model that prioritizes emotional health over past romantic friction.
- Preparedness Step: Setting digital boundaries and using journaling tools can help process breakups before attempting a friendship with an ex.
Moving From Breakup to Breakthrough: The Dobrev-Powell Dynamic
The vacation footage, which included the group playing pickleball, working out, and swimming, highlights a rare level of comfort between former partners. Dobrev and Powell dated briefly in 2017, and nearly a decade later, they have successfully transitioned into a platonic support system.
For those navigating their own social circles, this event underscores several “second-order” benefits of amicable post-breakup relationships:
- Reduced Social Friction: Maintaining a bond prevents mutual friends from feeling they must “choose sides.”
- Emotional Resilience: Celebrating with “old friends” can provide a sense of stability after a major loss, such as Dobrev’s ended engagement to Shaun White.
- Conflict De-escalation: The inclusion of Powell’s current girlfriend, Michelle Randolph, sets a standard for transparency and mutual respect.
The Challenges of “Ex-Friendships”
While the St. Barts trip looked seamless, experts note that reaching this stage requires a “cooling-off” period. For Nina Dobrev, the decade between her relationship with Powell and this vacation likely provided the necessary perspective. Navigating a friendship shortly after a split—like the one with White—requires a different set of tools focused on privacy and internal processing.
Verdict: For those learning how to maintain healthy friendships with your ex, the Five Minute Journal is the superior tool for cultivating the “graceful” mindset seen in Dobrev’s recent travels.
FAQ
How long should you wait before being friends with an ex?
There is no set timeline, but most psychologists suggest waiting until the romantic “charge” has faded. In Dobrev and Powell’s case, several years passed before they became “best friends.”
Is it healthy to hang out with an ex’s new partner?
Yes, provided there is genuine respect and no lingering jealousy. Doing so publicly, as seen in St. Barts, can actually normalize the situation for the entire social group.
What are the signs that a friendship with an ex is toxic?
If the friendship prevents you from moving on, causes constant arguments, or involves “checking in” due to guilt rather than genuine care, it may be time to set firmer boundaries.
How can I protect my privacy on social media after a breakup?
Use platform tools to “mute” or “hide” an ex’s posts temporarily. This allows you to heal without the constant visual reminder of their daily life.
What if my current partner is uncomfortable with my ex?
Communication is key. Explain the history and nature of the friendship, but prioritize your current partner’s feelings and boundaries to maintain trust.
External Sources
- Psychology Today: Should You Be Friends With Your Ex?
- The Gottman Institute: Navigating Relationship Transitions
Conclusion
The sight of Nina Dobrev, Glen Powell, and Michelle Randolph laughing together in the Caribbean is more than just celebrity gossip; it’s a blueprint for social maturity. By focusing on personal growth and choosing tools that support emotional clarity, anyone can learn how to maintain healthy friendships with your ex while keeping their peace of mind intact.
