Don’t you just wish there was some sort of handy dandy guide to dealing with tough breakups? You know, because as much as we may try to convince ourselves that there is such a thing as an amicable breakup, it isn’t always the most promising outcome. So let’s face it, splits can get really nasty at times and can cause some serious emotional collateral damage if our responses are not managed properly.
Take it from someone who literally binged themselves into a junk food stupor, I know just how difficult it can be to lose out on what you had hoped would be an incredible, loving companionship. So, in the spirit of bouncing back to the strong and powerful person I know you are, here are three additional pointers to helping you get back on your feet after a rough breakup, from me to you:
1. Find your savior soundtrack
This one is at the top of my list for a reason. I wasted so much of my time dawning on what could have been and questioning all that went awry in my relationship, and it completed destroyed my self-esteem. I questioned my worth, my standards and confidence. I was reeling in my own gloom, and the only sure fire thing to pull me out of my mucky state was music. Our souls feed off good music, and your body and mind will appreciate the gesture, too. I would personally recommend Michelle Branch’s Hotel Paper, the same album that always seemed to save me during those hard times.
2. Watch a feel-good movie
Okay, so this one is sort of a long shot but it really did work for me and hopefully for you, too. Comedies always seem to cheer me up, but romantic comedies are all too perfect for this occasion. Sure, breakups are nothing to laugh about but Crazy, Stupid, Love. is the most irresistible masterpiece of rom-com genius I’ve seen in a very long time. It’s beautiful, it’s witty, it’s uncomfortably honest at times but perfect nonetheless for finding closure. If you’re looking for an even more adventurous flick, the honorable mention would certainly go to Eat, Pray, Love and for those of you who love your classics, try Sixteen Candles (Jake Ryan’s smile alone could cure cancer).
3. Read Gone Girl (or any book, but GG is a must!)
Gillian Flynn is the master of revenge plots, you guys. But Gone Girl speaks specifically to us, the heartbroken heroes/heroines, and that is exactly why you should read it, now! If you’re still unsure, consider these few questions before diving into one of the greatest thriller novels of our time: Do you love suspense and marriage-murder plots (don’t worry, GG is not gruesome)? Do you want to read a terribly-true account of receiving the cold-shoulder from a loved one? Or have you ever been abandoned by your ex, caught them in the act of cheating and feel vengeful at times? If all answers point to yes, then you’ll want to pick up a copy of this amazing book today. Another runner-up to consider, The Silent Wife, a similar tale written by the late, great A.S.A Harrison.
Always remember, you’re not alone. Just because you’ve experienced a messy breakup with the one you loved doesn’t mean it has to result in a puddle of tears and sadness. These are just a few of the ways I’ve managed to conquer those hard times, so tell us how you managed your own experiences with unfriendly breakups?
Photo credit: adapted from trekkyandy | Flickr
More advice and tips are always welcome — share yours in the comments!