Guys what would you do to get your ex back?!?

If you were in a long term relationship and really loved the girl (telling her you’d know she’s the one) but had to take a break from the relationship to figure out your life (get sober, get a job, figure out school etc..). How long would you take, and what would you do to get her back?! What kind of things would you tell her along the way?! Would you be friends with her?!

I never go back to an ex.
They are an ex for a reason.