Break-ups are different for everyone. Some people are over them like last season’s teal nail polish trend and bounce back like a trampoline, while others become all consumed by the bastards and can’t seem to focus on anything but their ex. Seriously, these people need an intervention staged, which is the process I’ve started below. If you or someone you love falls into the latter category, keep reading:
1. Delete Them: And, of course by this I mean in the figurative sense; although it is quite nice to fantasize about the literal meaning. This includes blocking him/her on your Facebook and deleting email addresses and phone numbers. It’s for your own good. I know I’m not the only one who’s been guilty of Facebook stalking or drunk texting. Plus, this works the other way as well. You don’t want your ex knowing what/who you’re up to either. So, find that strength deep within yourself and delete. You can do it!
2. Break All Contact: This is similar to number one, but different. Breaking contact means don’t talk to your ex. If they call, don’t answer. If they stop over, don’t answer. If they email, don’t respond. And whatever you do, don’t ask mutual friends about how your ex is doing. Really, do you want to know? Let me answer that for you. No, you don’t. And if your inconsiderate friends try to tell you anyway, let them know you don’t want to know, thank you very much. It’s much easier to move on when you’re oblivious.
3. Take Down All Couple Pictures: No need to torture yourself any more than necessary. Trash your photos and replace them with ones of family and friends. It’s good to be reminded of your support system, because they are the ones who will be helping you through this difficult time. This all includes any mementos you were saving because you were oh so in love, such as movie/concert tickets or cards. It’s okay to save expensive jewelry. I mean, there’s no sense in trashing that and we all know pawn shops rip you off, so….
4. Escape: Take your mind, body or spirit on a vacation. It really doesn’t have to be anything elaborate, just something you enjoy. But, hell if you can afford Hawaii, by all means gather your besties and get over there. But, it can also be as simple as a night out dancing, a Sunday spent at the bookstore or a Saturday matinee. Oh, and any afternoon drinking a few glasses of wine outside and listening to some chill music will do too.
5. Date – A Lot: There’s a reason “they” say the best way to get over someone is to start seeing someone else. It works because it’s a distraction and makes you still feel desirable. But, if you’re not into dating, random (safe) sex is an adequate substitution. Just get yourself back out there!
6. Remember Why You Broke Up: You’re single for a reason. People don’t just break up out of the blue. Things went down, whether it was trust issues, wanting different things, or timing. You’re exes for a reason and don’t ever forget that. So write down all of the reasons you ended your relationship and read them daily, for as long as you need to.
