It may also be wise for you to block your ex’s number/email, to prevent any unwanted surprise contact.
You don’t have to throw everything away, but you may need time away from these items before you can fully move on. Why not box up any items that remind you of your ex and put them somewhere out of sight and mind?
Organize a party, outing, or dinner among friends to fill a lonely night with laughter and good times. Make special days based on your own parameters rather than those of someone else.
Another technique you may find beneficial is confessing your feelings to this person in your head. The simple act of releasing bottled emotions can speed up the healing process. [4] X Research source
Each person takes a different amount of time to process strong emotions. Respect the time you may need to process this emotional change. Though healing is an individual process, some studies assert it may take you up to 11 weeks before you finally feel free of the potent emotions associated with your romance. [5] X Research source
Exercise and enjoy associated mood-boosting benefits. Use art as therapy, which may be especially helpful if you are still uncomfortable expressing your feelings in words. Raise a pet or a plant, as having a living thing depend on you can lessen your feelings of depression. [6] X Research source
Community gardening groups Community clean-up Local sports teams Tabletop gaming groups
Think about your ex in terms of the positive, past tense feelings you used to have. Separating what was from what is can change your negative feelings for the better. [8] X Research source
Don’t forget to forgive yourself, even if the breakup wasn’t your fault or it was mutual. Avoid holding resentment against yourself for anything real or imagined.
In the event your ex is genuinely a good person, be happy that you had the opportunity to meet. Remember that everyone that comes into our lives can be a potential teacher.
What would I never have done before this relationship that through this relationship I could accomplish? What were some strengths of my ex-partner? Did I learn from these or develop these in myself? What did we accomplish together that I could never have accomplished by myself?
Contemplate trips you could afford on your own but not as a couple; now might be the right time to book a trip! Enroll in a class that you didn’t have time or energy for while in your relationship. Try a challenge, such as entering a local chili cooking competition or a photography contest.
Calm you Increase your sense of belonging Increase perceived self-worth Assist in overcoming challenges[15] X Research source
“I know this breakup’s been especially bad for me, and I’m sorry about venting to you all the time. You’ve been such a good friend through all this. I’m so thankful for your support. " “I wanted to thank you for forcing me to go out the other night. I was mopey and a little depressed, but a night out was exactly what I needed. " “You’ve been so patient with me through all this. Thank you. Without you here to listen and give me advice, this would’ve been so much more difficult for me. "