We all know the feeling, and if you've made it this far without enduring it, count yourself lucky. You're head over heels in love with someone only to have your heart broken. There is nothing more heart-wrenching than trusting in someone so completely only to have them break up with you. Now, I'm not an expert on relationships, but I love with a fire that burns deep. Caring too much is my weakness, and I have had my share of heartache. This is my advice on what to do when the break-up is definitely not mutual.
If he makes a conversation out of it, try not to get too emotional. This is something that is almost impossible for me because I cry all the time. The unfortunate truth is that people do not respond well to emotions, and he will likely write you off as irrational and assume your emotion is clouding your judgment. Let him talk. Really think about what he is saying and respond appropriately.
Don't purposely do things to get back at him. If you actually cared about the relationship, you would treat him with the respect that he deserves. Far too many times, I have seen people break up from mature relationships only to have the girl explode his cooler, post catty things about him online, and absolutely trash him to her friends. It just doesn't make a good face for yourself, and I know we are all about personal betterment.
Stop placing blame. Sometimes, things just don't work out. It wasn't all your fault. It's not his fault either. I mean, aren't you glad he broke it off now rather than you finding out after you got married, had a couple kids, bought some stuff, sold your house, and retired to Florida? If it's really meant to be, it will happen. You lived your life the way you thought best at the time. You did the best you could with the knowledge you had, and now you have more.
Give him his space. I know this is the hardest part. You will want to call him and see how he's doing because you know he has a test in his calculus class tomorrow and he really needs a good grade on this one. As much as you think he needs your support, what he really needs is his space. If he wants to talk to you, he will call you, and with that being said...
Don't maintain contact every day. In my experience, he was my very best friend; we did everything together, and our relationship was truly a friendship. Since we've broken up, we have spoken every single day about absolute nothingness. We will casually chat about how our days went, what we've been planning on doing, everything. Though it will feel like you're being mature by staying friends, you need some time to adjust, and that means adjusting away from him. Inevitably, one of you is going to find someone else, and you will have misplaced affections and likely make some pretty heavy mistakes.
Here's what I'm getting at: Breakups are really hard, and I really hope this is the last time you feel this way, but it's probably not. Try not to dwell on it too much, though. You are smart, attractive, worthwhile, and lovable. Get through this any way you know how: pop some bottles, watch sad movies, call your mom, dance in your room, dress really nice and take some pictures, TREAT YO'SELF. With time, you will forget the heartache, and life will be better. Remember that all things are temporary. Take care.
