It seems to be the season for heartbreak with couples breaking up left and right. Maybe it’s a natural reaction to a new school year, or maybe there’s something in the UNH water. Whatever the reason, it’s never easy and it’s never fun, no matter which side of the break up you’re on. However, these things happen. It’s an inevitable part of life, and you’ll come out stronger in the end. Break ups can be confusing and devastating, but following these 5 steps can help you get through it.
1. Let yourself be sad. Cry your eyes out, go through a box of tissues while watching The Notebook and screaming at the TV, and don’t get out of bed all day. It’s ok! The last thing you want to do is ignore your feelings, because you’ll end up blowing up at the worst possible time. Make sure you balance it though. It’s okay to stay in bed for a day or two, but when you stop showering and leaving your room for a week, that’s sort of a problem.
2. Surround yourself with people who lift you up. The best thing you can do is remind yourself of all the great people in your life. Hang out with your friends or go home for the night, but just remember that you’re not alone. In the wise words of Carrie Bradshaw, “Maybe our girlfriends are our soul mates and boys are just people to have fun with.” I don’t think she could be more right.
3. Do whatever it is that makes you feel better. If you want to eat your feelings, go grab some Ben & Jerry’s and eat the entire carton. (Just don’t make a habit out of it).
4. Keep yourself busy. The last thing you want to do is sit around at home replaying every conversation you ever had with your ex. Focus on your school work, go to the gym, or spend some extra time at work. Make your friends take you to get froyo or coffee, do something fun!
5. Most importantly, don’t harp on the bad things. Don’t allow the negativity to consume your life or you’ll become miserable and resentful. It’s so easy to focus on every bad moment from your relationship and put all your energy to hating your ex. Remember the good times you had with him, and take the situation for what it is. Let it be and try to be at peace with it. Obviously that’s easier said than done, but try to see the good in the situation. Know that you’re going to come out of the situation a stronger, more beautiful woman with even more to offer. If you leave all the negativity behind, it’ll be easier to move on.