"Let's just be friends." It's the infamous phrase people use when trying to lessen the blow of a breakup. But it's rarely meant as a sincere sentiment. There are very few people who can recover from a breakup and emerge as friends - but it's not impossible. Here are a few reasons why you might be able to remain friends (or not) after being romantically involved. Consider the manner in which you broke up. Rarely are breakups mutual - someone did the dumping, and someone got his or her feelings hurt. Depending on which side of the breakup you are, seeing the person platonically might just be too hurtful. When romantic feelings and longing linger, then it's not the ideal setup to be friends. If you agree to be friends, think about how you'll feel if you see your ex dating other people. Can you handle it without feelings of jealousy, bitterness and sadness? If so, then you might be fine friends. The life cycle of your romantic relationship is worth consideration as well.