20 Proven Ways To Get Over A Breakup & Move On

It's tough, guys, I get it. Getting over someone you love feels like climbing Mount Everest in flip-flops. Your heart aches, your mind races, and Netflix binges just don't cut it. But guess what? You're stronger than you think, and you absolutely can move on. This isn't about forgetting them entirely; it's about healing, growing, and opening yourself up to new possibilities. So, let's dive into 20 real, actionable ways to help you navigate this journey.

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings: The First Step to Healing

The first and foremost step in moving on is acknowledging your feelings. Don't bottle them up, guys. It's like shaking a soda can and expecting it not to explode when you open it. You're sad? Let yourself be sad. You're angry? Find a healthy way to express that anger. Suppressing your emotions only prolongs the healing process. It's okay to cry, to vent to a friend, or even scream into a pillow. The key is to let those emotions flow through you rather than getting stuck inside. Think of it like cleaning out a wound – you need to address the infection before it can heal. Ignoring your feelings is like putting a bandage over a festering wound; it might hide the problem for a while, but it won't actually make it better. So, give yourself permission to feel everything, even the messy stuff. Acknowledging your feelings is not a sign of weakness; it's a sign of strength. It shows that you're willing to confront your pain and begin the process of healing. Remember, you're human, and feeling emotions is part of the human experience. Don't judge yourself for what you're feeling; simply acknowledge it and allow yourself to process it. This is the foundation upon which you will build your journey to moving on.

2. Cut off Contact: A Clean Break for a Fresh Start

This one's tough love, guys, but cutting off contact is crucial. I know, I know, you want to check their Instagram, see what they're up to, maybe even send a casual text. Resist the urge! Every like, every comment, every text message is like ripping off the scab of a wound that's trying to heal. It keeps you tethered to the past and prevents you from moving forward. Unfollow them on social media, delete their number (or at least hide it), and avoid places where you know you'll run into them. This isn't about being mean or vindictive; it's about protecting your heart and giving yourself the space you need to heal. Think of it like detoxing from an addiction – you need to remove the substance (in this case, your ex) from your environment to break the cycle. Every time you interact with them, you're reinforcing the emotional connection and making it harder to move on. It's like trying to quit smoking while constantly holding a cigarette. So, make the clean break. It will hurt at first, but trust me, it's the kindest thing you can do for yourself in the long run. Give yourself the gift of distance and allow yourself to breathe and heal without the constant reminder of what was.

3. Lean on Your Support System: You're Not Alone in This

Guys, you're not an island! Lean on your support system. Your friends and family are your rock during this time. Talk to them, cry with them, laugh with them (even if it feels forced at first). They're there to listen without judgment, offer advice (if you want it), and remind you of your worth. Don't be afraid to be vulnerable and share what you're going through. Bottling up your emotions will only make you feel more isolated and alone. Your loved ones care about you and want to help you heal. Think of your support system as a safety net – they're there to catch you when you fall and help you get back on your feet. Talking about your feelings can be incredibly cathartic and can help you process your emotions in a healthy way. Sometimes, just voicing your pain can make it feel less overwhelming. And remember, you're not burdening your friends and family by leaning on them. True friends want to be there for you during tough times. So, reach out, connect, and let your loved ones help you navigate this challenging period.

4. Rediscover Yourself: What Makes You, You?

Breakups can leave you feeling like you've lost a part of yourself. Now's the time to rediscover yourself! What are your passions? What makes you tick? What did you enjoy doing before the relationship? Dive back into old hobbies, explore new interests, and reconnect with the things that make you, you. This is an opportunity to redefine yourself outside of the relationship and build a stronger sense of self-worth. Think of it as a chance to reinvent yourself and create a life that is even more fulfilling than before. Maybe you've always wanted to learn a new language, take a dance class, or travel to a new country. Now is the perfect time to pursue those dreams. Rediscovering yourself is not about erasing the past; it's about building a brighter future. It's about recognizing your own strength, resilience, and potential. As you reconnect with your passions and interests, you'll start to feel more like yourself again and you'll remember all the amazing qualities that make you unique. This journey of self-discovery will not only help you move on from the breakup, but it will also enrich your life in countless ways.

5. Practice Self-Care: Treat Yourself with Kindness

Self-care is non-negotiable during this time, guys. Treat yourself with the same kindness and compassion you would offer a friend going through a breakup. Get enough sleep, eat nutritious meals, exercise regularly, and engage in activities that make you feel good. This isn't about being selfish; it's about replenishing your emotional reserves and giving yourself the energy you need to heal. Think of self-care as filling your own cup before you can pour into others. You can't effectively support yourself or others if you're running on empty. So, prioritize your well-being and make self-care a daily practice. This could include anything from taking a relaxing bath to reading a good book to spending time in nature. The key is to find activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. Remember, you deserve to be treated with kindness and compassion, especially during challenging times. Practicing self-care is not a luxury; it's a necessity. It's an investment in your emotional and physical health, and it will help you navigate the healing process with greater strength and resilience. As you prioritize your well-being, you'll start to feel more grounded, centered, and capable of moving forward.

6. Set Realistic Expectations: Healing Takes Time

Let's be real, guys, healing takes time. There's no magic switch you can flip to instantly erase your feelings. Be patient with yourself and set realistic expectations. Some days will be better than others, and that's okay. Don't beat yourself up if you have a setback or if you still think about your ex. The important thing is that you're moving forward, even if it's just one small step at a time. Think of the healing process as a marathon, not a sprint. There will be ups and downs, moments of progress and moments of setbacks. The key is to keep putting one foot in front of the other and to trust that you will eventually reach the finish line. It's also important to avoid comparing your healing journey to others. Everyone heals at their own pace, and what works for one person may not work for another. So, focus on your own progress and celebrate your own milestones, no matter how small they may seem. Remember, you're not expected to be perfect during this time. You're allowed to feel sad, angry, confused, and a whole range of other emotions. The key is to acknowledge those feelings and to allow yourself to process them without judgment. Be kind to yourself, be patient with yourself, and trust that you will eventually heal.

7. Avoid Social Media Stalking: Protect Your Peace

Seriously, avoid social media stalking! I know it's tempting to check their profiles, but it's a recipe for heartache. Seeing them happy, with someone else, or even just living their life without you can set you back. Unfollow them, mute them, do whatever you need to do to protect your peace of mind. Social media often presents a curated version of reality, and it's easy to fall into the trap of comparing your life to theirs. But remember, what you see online is not always the full picture. Obsessively checking their social media feeds will only fuel your anxiety and keep you stuck in the past. It's like constantly reopening a wound that's trying to heal. Give yourself the gift of space and distance by disconnecting from their online presence. Focus on your own life, your own happiness, and your own healing journey. The less you see of them, the less power they have over your emotions. And the less power they have over your emotions, the faster you'll be able to move on. So, resist the urge to stalk, and prioritize your own well-being instead.

8. Focus on the Negatives: Remember Why It Ended

It's easy to romanticize the past, but focus on the negatives of the relationship too. Remind yourself of the reasons why it ended. What were the red flags? What made you unhappy? This can help you gain perspective and prevent you from idealizing your ex. When we're hurting, it's natural to focus on the good times and to forget the bad times. But it's important to have a balanced view of the relationship in order to move on. Make a list of the things that didn't work, the things that made you unhappy, and the reasons why the relationship wasn't right for you. This will help you to see the relationship more objectively and to recognize that it wasn't the perfect fairytale you might be imagining it to be. Focusing on the negatives is not about being bitter or resentful; it's about being realistic and protecting your heart. It's about reminding yourself that you deserve to be in a relationship that makes you happy and that meets your needs. As you focus on the negatives, you'll start to see the relationship in a new light and you'll be less likely to idealize your ex or to regret the breakup. This perspective will help you to move on with greater clarity and confidence.

9. Forgive, But Don't Forget: A Path to Closure

Forgiveness is key, guys, but it doesn't mean forgetting what happened. Forgive your ex for your own peace of mind, not for theirs. Holding onto anger and resentment is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die. It only hurts you in the long run. Forgiveness is about releasing the negative emotions that are holding you back and allowing yourself to move forward. It's not about condoning their behavior or pretending that nothing happened; it's about choosing to let go of the pain. However, forgiveness doesn't mean forgetting. It's important to remember the lessons you learned from the relationship and to use them to make better choices in the future. Don't repeat the same mistakes or ignore the same red flags. Forgiveness and remembrance can coexist. You can forgive your ex for the hurt they caused while still acknowledging that the relationship wasn't right for you. This balance is essential for closure and for creating healthy relationships in the future. As you forgive and remember, you'll be able to move on with a sense of peace and clarity, knowing that you've learned from the past and that you're ready to embrace the future.

10. Write It Out: Journal Your Feelings

Journaling is a powerful tool for processing your emotions. Write down your thoughts, your feelings, your fears, your hopes – anything that's on your mind. It's a safe space to vent without judgment and can help you gain clarity and perspective. Think of your journal as your personal therapist, a place where you can freely express yourself without fear of criticism. Writing down your thoughts and feelings can help you to untangle your emotions and to understand them more clearly. It can also help you to identify patterns in your behavior and to make positive changes in your life. Don't worry about grammar or spelling or writing perfectly; just focus on getting your thoughts out on paper. You can write about anything that's on your mind, from your sadness and anger to your hopes and dreams. You can also use your journal to track your progress in the healing process and to celebrate your accomplishments. Journaling is a powerful way to connect with yourself, to process your emotions, and to gain clarity about your life. It's a tool that you can use throughout your life to manage stress, to improve your mental health, and to achieve your goals. So, grab a notebook and a pen and start writing. You might be surprised at how much it helps.

11. Seek Professional Help: Therapy Can Make a Difference

Guys, there's no shame in seeking professional help. Therapy can make a huge difference in your healing journey. A therapist can provide a safe and supportive space for you to explore your emotions, develop coping mechanisms, and gain a deeper understanding of yourself. Think of therapy as a tune-up for your mental and emotional well-being. Just like you go to the doctor for physical checkups, it's important to take care of your mental health as well. A therapist can help you to identify and address any underlying issues that may be contributing to your pain and to develop healthy strategies for coping with difficult emotions. They can also provide an objective perspective on your situation and help you to see things in a new light. Therapy is not a sign of weakness; it's a sign of strength. It shows that you're willing to invest in your own well-being and to take the steps necessary to heal. There are many different types of therapy, so you can find a therapist and a approach that is right for you. Don't hesitate to reach out for help if you're struggling to cope on your own. Therapy can provide you with the tools and support you need to move on and to build a happier, healthier life.

12. Change Your Scenery: A Fresh Perspective

Sometimes, a change of scenery is exactly what you need. Go on a trip, even if it's just a weekend getaway. Explore a new city, visit a friend, or spend some time in nature. A new environment can help you break free from your routine, gain a fresh perspective, and create new memories. Think of it as hitting the reset button on your life. Getting away from your usual surroundings can help you to clear your head, to disconnect from the past, and to focus on the present. It can also be a great opportunity to try new things, to meet new people, and to expand your horizons. You don't have to go on a lavish vacation to experience the benefits of a change of scenery. Even a short trip to a nearby town or a hike in the mountains can make a difference. The key is to get out of your comfort zone and to expose yourself to new experiences. A change of scenery can also help you to break free from the triggers that are reminding you of your ex. If you're constantly surrounded by the same places and people that you shared with your ex, it can be difficult to move on. A new environment can help you to create new associations and to start building a new life for yourself. So, pack your bags and go explore. You might be surprised at how much it helps.

13. Stay Busy: Distraction Can Be Healthy

While it's important to acknowledge your feelings, staying busy can also be a healthy distraction. Fill your time with activities you enjoy, spend time with friends and family, and pursue your goals. The more you focus on your own life, the less time you'll have to dwell on the past. Think of it as occupying your mind with positive and productive activities. The more you engage in things that bring you joy and fulfillment, the less room there will be for negative thoughts and feelings. This doesn't mean you should completely ignore your emotions; it means finding a balance between acknowledging your pain and not letting it consume you. Staying busy can be a healthy coping mechanism, but it's important to choose activities that are genuinely enjoyable and that contribute to your well-being. Don't just fill your time with mindless distractions; instead, focus on things that make you feel good about yourself and that help you to grow as a person. This could include anything from volunteering to taking a class to pursuing a hobby. The key is to find activities that give you a sense of purpose and that help you to connect with others. As you stay busy and engaged in your life, you'll start to feel more confident, more resilient, and more capable of moving on.

14. Set New Goals: Focus on the Future

Setting new goals is a powerful way to shift your focus from the past to the future. What do you want to achieve in your life? What are your dreams and aspirations? Start working towards those goals, both big and small. This will give you a sense of purpose and direction, and it will help you to create a life that is even more fulfilling than before. Think of your goals as a roadmap for your future. They provide you with a sense of direction and give you something to strive for. Setting goals can also help you to regain a sense of control over your life, which can be particularly important after a breakup. When you're feeling lost and uncertain, having a clear vision of what you want to achieve can be incredibly empowering. Your goals can be anything that is important to you, from career aspirations to personal growth to relationship goals. The key is to choose goals that are challenging but achievable and that align with your values and interests. As you work towards your goals, you'll start to feel more confident, more motivated, and more optimistic about the future. This positive momentum will help you to move on from the past and to create a life that is truly your own.

15. Practice Gratitude: Appreciate What You Have

In the midst of heartbreak, it's easy to focus on what you've lost. But practicing gratitude can help you to shift your perspective and to appreciate what you still have. Make a list of the things you're grateful for in your life, from your health to your friends and family to your opportunities. This will remind you that you have much to be thankful for, even during difficult times. Think of gratitude as a powerful antidote to negativity. When you focus on the things you're grateful for, you're less likely to dwell on the things you're missing. Practicing gratitude can also help you to feel more connected to others and to the world around you. It can boost your mood, reduce stress, and improve your overall well-being. There are many ways to practice gratitude, from keeping a gratitude journal to expressing your appreciation to others to simply taking a moment each day to reflect on the good things in your life. The key is to make gratitude a regular habit. As you cultivate an attitude of gratitude, you'll start to see the world in a more positive light and you'll be better equipped to cope with challenges and setbacks. Gratitude will remind you of your strength and resilience, and it will help you to move on with a sense of hope and optimism.

16. Challenge Negative Thoughts: Reframe Your Perspective

Breakups can trigger a flood of negative thoughts. Challenge those negative thoughts! Are they really true? Are they helpful? Often, our thoughts are distorted and don't reflect reality. Reframe your perspective and focus on the positive aspects of your life and your future. Think of your thoughts as a filter through which you perceive the world. If your filter is clouded with negativity, you'll only see the bad things. Challenging negative thoughts is about cleaning that filter and allowing yourself to see the world more clearly. When you have a negative thought, ask yourself: Is this thought based on facts, or is it just an assumption? Is this thought helpful, or is it making me feel worse? What's another way to look at this situation? Reframing your thoughts doesn't mean denying your pain or pretending that everything is okay. It means choosing to focus on the positive aspects of your life and to find a more balanced perspective. It means recognizing that you have the power to control your thoughts and to choose how you respond to them. As you challenge negative thoughts and reframe your perspective, you'll start to feel more empowered, more resilient, and more hopeful about the future. This will help you to move on with greater confidence and to create a life that is filled with joy and fulfillment.

17. Avoid Rebound Relationships: Give Yourself Time to Heal

It might be tempting to jump into a new relationship to fill the void, but avoid rebound relationships. Give yourself time to heal and to process your emotions before you start dating again. A rebound relationship is often a distraction from your pain, and it can prevent you from truly moving on. Think of a rebound relationship as a temporary bandage on a deep wound. It might provide some initial relief, but it won't address the underlying issue. In fact, a rebound relationship can often complicate the healing process and lead to further pain and disappointment. Before you start dating again, it's important to take the time to heal from your previous relationship, to understand what went wrong, and to learn from your experiences. It's also important to rediscover yourself, to reconnect with your passions, and to build a strong sense of self-worth. Rushing into a new relationship before you're ready can be unfair to yourself and to the other person. You might not be fully present in the relationship, and you might have unrealistic expectations. Give yourself the gift of time and allow yourself to heal completely before you start dating again. This will help you to build healthier, more fulfilling relationships in the future.

18. Learn from the Relationship: Growth Through Experience

Every relationship, even those that end, can be a learning experience. Learn from the relationship: what did you learn about yourself? What do you want in a future partner? What are your relationship dealbreakers? This self-reflection will help you grow and make better choices in the future. Think of every relationship as a valuable lesson in the school of life. Even if a relationship doesn't last forever, it can still teach you important things about yourself, about your needs, and about what you want in a partner. Take the time to reflect on your past relationship and to identify the lessons you've learned. What did you do well? What could you have done differently? What are your strengths and weaknesses in relationships? What are your non-negotiables? What are the red flags you should watch out for? This self-reflection will help you to grow as a person and to build healthier relationships in the future. It will also help you to avoid repeating the same mistakes and to make better choices about who you date. Learning from your past relationships is not about dwelling on the negative; it's about using your experiences to create a brighter future. It's about turning heartbreak into growth and about becoming the best version of yourself.

19. Be Patient with Yourself: It's Okay to Have Bad Days

I'm going to say it again, guys: be patient with yourself. It's okay to have bad days. It's okay to miss your ex. It's okay to feel sad. Healing is not a linear process, and there will be ups and downs along the way. Don't beat yourself up for having a setback; just acknowledge it, learn from it, and keep moving forward. Think of healing as a journey with twists and turns, hills and valleys. There will be times when you feel like you're making progress and times when you feel like you're going backwards. There will be days when you feel strong and confident and days when you feel vulnerable and sad. This is all perfectly normal. The key is to be patient with yourself and to accept that healing takes time. Don't expect to feel better overnight, and don't get discouraged if you have a bad day. Just remember that setbacks are a part of the process and that they don't mean you're failing. Be kind to yourself, be compassionate with yourself, and celebrate your progress, no matter how small it may seem. Remember that you're doing the best you can, and that's all that matters.

20. Celebrate Your Strength: You've Got This!

Finally, guys, celebrate your strength! You're going through a tough time, and you're handling it like a champ. You're showing incredible resilience, and you deserve to be proud of yourself. Acknowledge your progress, celebrate your milestones, and remind yourself that you've got this! Think of yourself as a warrior who has just battled a fierce dragon. You might be wounded, but you're still standing, and you're stronger than ever. Going through a breakup is one of the most challenging experiences in life, and you're facing it head-on. You're acknowledging your pain, you're seeking support, and you're taking steps to heal. This is a testament to your strength and resilience. Don't let anyone tell you that you're not strong enough or that you can't do this. You are strong, you are capable, and you will get through this. Celebrate your accomplishments along the way, no matter how small they may seem. Acknowledge your progress, and remind yourself of how far you've come. You've got this! You've got the strength, the courage, and the determination to heal and to create a life that is even more fulfilling than before. Believe in yourself, and celebrate your amazing resilience.

Moving on is a journey, not a destination. There will be good days and bad days, but remember that you are strong, capable, and worthy of love. Keep putting one foot in front of the other, and you will eventually reach the other side. You've got this!