Breaking up is tough, but that first week? It’s a special kind of hell. You’re probably feeling like your world’s been turned upside down. But listen up – it doesn’t have to be as brutal as you think. Here’s how to navigate those treacherous waters without drowning in misery.
1. Cut the cord
First things first – delete their number. Yeah, I know it’s hard. But trust me, drunk dialing your ex at 2 AM isn’t going to do you any favors. While you’re at it, hide their social media updates, too. Out of sight, out of mind.
2. Feel the pain (but don’t wallow)
It’s okay to cry, scream into a pillow, or punch your mattress. Let it out. But set a timer. Give yourself an hour a day to be miserable, then get back to life. Wallowing 24/7 is just going to prolong the agony.
3. Get moving
Exercise might be the last thing on your mind, but it’s a lifesaver. Hit the gym, go for a run, or try that kickboxing class you’ve been eyeing. Physical activity releases endorphins – nature’s antidepressants. Plus, it’s a great way to work out that anger.
4. Lean on your squad
Now’s the time to call in the cavalry. Reach out to friends and family. Let them distract you, make you laugh, or just sit with you in silence. Don’t isolate yourself – that’s a one-way ticket to Mopeville.
5. Avoid the rebound
I get it, you’re hurting and lonely. But jumping into bed with the first willing participant isn’t the answer. It might feel good for a minute, but it’ll just leave you feeling emptier afterward. Give yourself time to heal.
6. Rediscover yourself
Remember all those things you loved doing before your relationship? Time to dust them off. Always wanted to learn guitar? Sign up for lessons. Love hiking but your ex hated it? Hit the trails. Reconnect with the person you were before “we” became “me” again.
7. Stay busy
An idle mind is the devil’s playground, especially post-breakup. Fill your schedule. Take on extra projects at work, volunteer, or finally clean out that disaster zone you call a garage. Keep your hands and mind occupied.
8. Nix the nostalgia
Don’t torture yourself by reliving the “good old days”. Pack away those photos, love letters, and mementos. You don’t have to trash them, but keep them out of sight for now. Future you can decide what to do with them when you’re not an emotional wreck.
9. Practice self-care
Eat well, get enough sleep, and for the love of all that’s holy, shower regularly. It’s easy to let yourself go when you’re heartbroken, but taking care of your basic needs will help you feel human again.
10. Avoid major decisions
Now is not the time to quit your job, move to Bali, or get that face tattoo you’ve been considering. Your judgment is clouded by emotion. Hold off on any life-altering choices until you’re thinking clearly again.
11. Learn from it
Once the initial shock wears off, take some time to reflect. What went wrong? What did you learn about yourself? Use this as an opportunity for growth. Every ending is a new beginning if you approach it right.
12. Consider professional help
If you’re really struggling, there’s no shame in talking to a therapist. They can provide tools to help you cope and move forward. It’s an investment in your mental health and future happiness.
13. Stay off the bottle
Drowning your sorrows in alcohol might seem tempting, but it’s a slippery slope. A drink or two with friends is fine, but don’t make it a habit. Alcohol is a depressant, and you’ve got enough of that going on already.
14. Get out of town
If you can swing it, a change of scenery can work wonders. You don’t have to jet off to Europe (unless you want to). Even a weekend road trip can help clear your head and give you a fresh perspective.
15. Write it out
Journaling can be incredibly therapeutic. Pour your thoughts onto paper. Write a letter to your ex (that you’ll never send). List the reasons why you’re better off without them. Getting it all out of your head can be cathartic.
Remember, surviving a breakup is a process. Some days will be better than others. Be patient with yourself. You will get through this, and you’ll come out stronger on the other side.
If you’re looking for more in-depth strategies on not just surviving but thriving after a breakup, check out Breakup Dojo. It’s packed with advanced techniques for moving on and even potentially winning back your ex (if that’s what you want). But that’s a whole other conversation.
For now, focus on getting through this first week. Take it one day at a time. Before you know it, you’ll be looking back on this as just another chapter in your story – not the end of it.
