Breakups are hard, especially if you're being forced to move on from someone you really care about. Here is a list of five things you can do (and should do) to get yourself through this tough time.
1. Allow yourself to grieve.
It's natural to cry and mourn the loss of a relationship and/or someone you really care about. Give yourself time to feel that grief and heartache. Breakups are never easy when you truly care about a person, so don't feel like you're taking it too hard. Bottling up your feelings will only make things worse in the end.
2. Spend time doing the things you love.
Whether it's reading, biking, jogging, skydiving, shopping or whatever, do it. You have this time now to devote to yourself and make yourself happy. Make a list of every hobby you have and go for it. Chances are you'll find that there are a few you haven't enjoyed in awhile.
3. Try something new.
Even if it's just a new restaurant with your family or a few of your girlfriends, or you're finally deciding to take up some dance lessons. Do something a little out of your comfort zone. It'll help you open up and make you realize that there's more to this world than that person you were once with, and maybe you'll even obtain a new hobby!
4. Spend time with your friends/family.
To me, this is the most important one. Your family and even your friends are your backbone. They will be the ones supporting you 24/7 through even the toughest of times. Lean on them. Go to them when you're feeling down. I promise you that they will listen and be there. I can't even tell you how many times I cried to my dad, yet he was still there every single time, as were my friends. They will be with you every step of the way.
5. Take care of yourself.
Don't worry about anyone else but YOU. This is your time to focus on yourself: body, mind and soul. Exercise (or don't!), read that book you've had on your shelf for six months, take that road trip to the Rocky Mountains you've been planning forever, try that new burger joint down the street. Do what YOU want. Don't let anyone else dictate you or make your decisions for you.
All of these things I've listed are important on their own, but when you put them together, it makes a breakup seem less painful. So go on that trip, eat that juicy burger, grieve and cry, lean on your friends and learn to dance so you don't fall at your own wedding. And YES, I promise you that you will find that special someone someday. But until then, live. Enjoy what's in front of you right now.
