It’s hard to go through a breakup or divorce. You might feel like you’re alone in your ordeal, but it doesn’t have to be that way. With the right words, wisdom, and advice from experts, you can move on with your life.
Here’s the best advice on recovering after a breakup or divorce, so you don’t need to spend hours searching high and low for what might help you most.
Support Yourself and Your Children
Breakups and divorces can be difficult for kids to understand, so make sure you explain them in a way they will easily comprehend. It’s also essential to take care of yourself and not neglect your own needs during this time either.
Some things that will help you move on after a breakup or divorce include:
- Talking about it
- Eating well and sleeping well
- Remembering that time does heal all wounds
Seek Professional Help
There are many therapists and counselors available who can help you get through a breakup or divorce. Not only is it okay to seek this kind of help, but in some cases, it’s actually advised:
- If there was abuse involved
- If one partner cheated and the other partner has trouble fitting that into their lives
- If your partner broke off the relationship
- If you are having trouble figuring out what to do next
Exercise
Exercise is always a great way to recover from anything. After a breakup or divorce, it’s beneficial because not only does it release endorphins that relieve stress, but it also helps you get in touch with your body again and makes you feel more confident about yourself.
After a breakup or divorce, an hour at the gym is usually just what the doctor ordered. And did you know that taking up new activities like dancing, rock climbing, tango lessons, or jiujitsu can actually help you get your mojo back, too?
Reach Out to Friends and Family
You might feel like withdrawing from all your friends and family, but the truth is that they love you and want to help you. Lean on them for support as much as possible until you’re ready to move on from a breakup or divorce.
Take some time to recall any great memories or accomplishments you shared with your partner before they broke up with you, moved out of the house, or filed for divorce. It’s a valuable way to remind yourself that you’re still the same amazing person even without your partner and that if they can’t see what you have to offer now, then it’s their loss.
Find Meaning in Your Life
After a breakup or divorce, it’s essential to find meaning in your life. Whether you rediscover an old hobby or finally get around to tackling some of those home improvement projects you’ve been putting off, these can be great ways to fill time and put yourself on the path towards happiness again.
At the beginning of a breakup or divorce, you might find yourself trying to cope by drinking too much or eating comfort food, but these aren’t healthy coping mechanisms and will only make things worse. It’s important to realize that while it may not feel like it now, you can get through this and one day be happy again.
Rediscover Yourself
You might feel like your identity is tied to your partner and that you’re not quite sure who you are without them. But the truth is that this isn’t true. You were yourself long before you met and will be yourself for many years to come.
Remember what you like about yourself and that your partner’s loss is not necessarily your gain. Don’t forget to take time for yourself and do something nice now and then, too. Go to the movies, shop, pamper yourself at the salon, or go on a road trip by yourself—whatever makes you happy.
Reach Out to New People
When you feel ready, start getting out there again by reaching out to new people. Join a local book club, take up salsa lessons, or volunteer at the animal shelter. Not only will these activities bring you happiness, but they’re also great ways to meet new friends and lovers.
If you want to avoid the awkward feeling of putting yourself out there, you can visit a professional matchmaker for a possible love match. You don’t have to marry the next guy you date, but an expert can help you find someone with whom you have things in common. Rather than just focus on what he looks like or what he does for a living, focus on what you both enjoy doing.
If you’re really not ready to start dating yet, that’s fine, too. Just use the time to focus on yourself and rediscover your hobbies or interests. When you are ready, narrow down all your options.
Final Thoughts
After a breakup or divorce, it’s essential to think positively and give yourself time to heal. Take up new activities, spend some time with friends and family, and rediscover your true self so that you can move on and be happy.
