What Happens When You Fall Back into Old Habits?

Two years ago, Hoda Kotb's eight-year relationship with Joel Schiffman came to an end. Recently, the beloved Today cohost opened up about a moment of vulnerability where she reconnected with an unnamed ex. During a candid conversation about Cardi B's holiday hookup with ex Offset, Hoda, now 59, admitted that she too had "fallen into old habits." She confessed that she regretted her own tryst, wishing she'd exercised "just a little bit more willpower." Hoda explained that when you've been apart from someone—even for a month or two—it's easy to forget what caused the breakup in the first place. "There are moments where you're like, 'What was so bad about that person?'" she said. It's a relatable sentiment, one that many of us can understand. Sometimes, the past has a way of creeping back into our lives, whether we're ready for it or not.

Why Reconnecting with an Ex Can Feel Like a Double-Edged Sword

According to sources close to Hoda, her decision to reconnect with her ex hasn't exactly been a source of joy. Instead, it's left her feeling stuck in a "vicious cycle." One insider revealed, "She ends up kicking herself and feeling dumped all over again." This emotional rollercoaster is something Hoda clearly didn't anticipate. Beyond her personal feelings, there's also the matter of her two children, Haley and Hope. The insider added, "Haley and Hope want their parents together. They don’t quite get why their dad doesn’t live with them anymore. It’s hard for Hoda." As a single mom, Hoda is acutely aware of the impact her decisions have on her kids. While reconnecting with an ex might seem like a harmless mistake, the emotional weight of it can be heavier than expected.