So it just ended -- now what? You realized that the thing you had wanted for so long and had worked your tail off just wasn't for you. When you wake up from the dream you held on to, the world feels awful at first. The rose-tinted glasses no longer work and everything feels slightly more gray. All you want is to go back to that dream but you know in your heart that waking up was the best thing for you. Now what do you do? Well, here is my foolproof plan for getting over the heartache and moving on.

Step 1: Feel the pain.

I know that sounds counter productive but sometimes pain is what you need. Don't let it linger for too long and don't act rashly. Simply sit there and feel the pain, cry if you must. This will help you find closure.

Step 2: Drink lots of water.

When you cry you lose a lot of water. Drinking more will rejuvenate you and make you feel better physically. As you sip, feel the water washing down your throat and lifting your spirits. This will also fill you up so you are less likely to crave those nasty snacks that sound oh-so-good right now but will ultimately just make you feel worse.

Step 3: Close your eyes and take 10 deep breaths.

Slowing down and focusing on your breath allows you to recenter yourself and come back to what is important. Make your breath the only thing you think of and let this clear your head. Take notice of every thought that passes through your head but do not hold on to it. After taking this time to breathe slowly, open your eyes and take in the world and all its light. There is light everywhere -- sometimes you just need to look a little harder.

Step 4: Move your body.

Exercise will release endorphins that will make you feel better. When you focus on how you physically feel and take care of yourself, it will be way easier to take care of your heart. It doesn't have to be a workout for Olympians; simply going for a walk or doing some stretches is enough. As long as you are moving and getting new air into your lungs with every breath, you will hurt less.

Step 5: Take things in baby steps.

Everything will fall into place in due time -- you just have to give it the time. There will be a new dream eventually, but in the meantime, enjoy being awake. There is a lot to experience in this world, and the more you experience, the better you will feel. Start with the little things that you know you love, and branch out from there. Every day that you wake up in the morning and go to sleep at night is a win.

Sometimes dreams don't come true. It hurts an awful lot when you realize this, but as time passes, it won't hurt as much. Repeat these five steps as many times as you need, and after a while, you will begin to feel less brokenhearted. The world is out there and it is waiting for you to join it.