A Positive Break-Up Playlist, Inspired by an Ex

After a breakup, your initial response is to probably to call your girlfriends, eat mass amounts of chocolate and turn on music that reminds you of why love is such a terrible concept (Taylor Swift is an expert at conveying that message).  I’m a huge advocate for calling your girls and easing the pain with chocolate, but turn that music off!
 

Like most girls, I have a playlist dedicated to times when I’m in the midst of heartbreak. However, unlike most girls, I don’t have Taylor Swift on the playlist as she bashes her exes. Instead, I have a variety of songs that remind me to appreciate the lessons I’ve learned through my relationships. Here are my recommendations:
 
1. A Little Bit Stronger by Sara Evans
 Breakups will always be rough. Take it from Sara Evans and know that as time goes by, you’ll be “busy getting stronger.” Personally, I like realizing the strength that I have and knowing I don’t need to depend on someone else for my happiness. Breaking up is always hard, but it gets better with time. Take comfort in the fact that you are becoming a stronger person as time goes on even if it doesn’t seem like it at first. You’re going to learn how strong you are.      
 
2. You Could Be Happy by Snow Patrol
 Use the breakup as an excuse to try everything you want to try. As the song says, “Do the things you always wanted to, without me there to hold you back. Don’t think, just do.” For me, there is no could. Youwillbe happy if you try everything you were too scared to try when you were in a relationship. When a breakup occurs (especially if you’re the person dumped), then you’re probably more willing to try things because you don’t think there is anything to lose. After my last break-up, I got about five inches of my hair cut off…and I loved it. Don’t sit around moping with ice cream while you whine to your friends; find an activity that will give you a boost of self-esteem and put your outside your comfort zone. Break away from your comfort zone. 
 
 
3. Because of You by Kelly Clarkson
 “I learned to play on the safe side so I don’t get hurt” – that’s the line that hits home for me every time I listen to this song. I’ve been known to get attached very easily in relationships but, like Kelly, I’m finally learning when to play it safe. Giving your all in a relationship is important, but keep some of yourself locked away. You’ll need it in your time of vulnerability when the only person you can count on is yourself. Trust yourself before you trust anyone else.
  
 
 4. Love Song for No One by John Mayer
 “He’s out there, she’s out there. They’re just learning what to contrast you against,” John Mayer said during a live performance of this song. You’ll never learn to appreciate the person you’re with if you don’t have anything to compare him or her to. Appreciation is absolutely crucial for a healthy relationship.  
 
 
5. Some Mistakes by Brad Paisley
 “Some mistakes are too much fun to only make once, love like this too much fun to only make once.” In other words, something made you date your ex – you were drawn to them in some way. Don’t beat yourself up over it and don’t hate on your ex either. Learn from your mistakes and thank your ex for helping you make better decisions in the future.   
 
Remember the good times, acknowledge the bad, listen to the music, and learn from it all.