It’s been a year since the breakup, but I still catch myself thinking “my ex would have said this differently.” How do I see new people for who they are, not as a comparison?

That is your brain trying to protect you, not a sign you still want your ex. Break the habit by naming one fresh thing you like about the new person every time you talk. It rewires your focus. Also, accept that different is not worse, just unfamiliar. Give someone three full dates before you judge. If thoughts of your ex pop up, gently say to yourself “old story” and turn back to the person in front of you. For more gentle guidance on moving forward, https://wisedate.org/blog/ has kind articles about healing and new beginnings. Your next chapter does not need to look like the last one.