Getting over an ex can be tough; even if you were the one to end the relationship. Sure, time heals, but there are ways to get over your ex faster that don’t involve a therapist.

1. Embrace activities that give you joy

You may feel bereft without your former partner, but throwing yourself into activities that fill you with joy is important to help you feel like a whole person again. Plus, the endorphins help.

2. Push yourself out of your comfort zone

Visit that country you’ve wanted to travel to for ages but haven’t felt bold enough. Take that class. Learn that language. Doing something new and succeeding (however “success” looks to you) will give you confidence during this tricky time.

3. Create new memories

If some places strongly remind you of your ex and you’d be sad to stop going to those places, go there with a friend or a loved one. Make new memories that aren’t tied to your former partner.

4. Consider dating again

It’s a cliche that you need to get under someone to get over someone but neither do you need to work on yourself before dating again. Ignore the illusive rulebook and do what feels natural. Going on a few dates and then pausing is just as acceptable after a breakup as sleeping with half the city. Be safe and have fun.

5. Don’t fall into the trap of seeking closure before moving on

You may never get “closure” from your ex. Accepting this and moving on regardless will help speed the emotional recovery from a breakup.

6. Resist the urge to have sex with the ex

This rarely ends well. Likewise: don’t go for dinner or drinks.

7. Remind yourself of the negative aspects of your past relationship

When you feel sad and lonely (hello, Sunday evening), think about the things your partner did that used to annoy you. Get a little riled up and feel pleased you and the irritating bastard are no longer together.

8. Have a digital cleanse

Keeping the romantic and sexy messages you and your ex sent to each other means you’ll probably feel tempted to read them at some point and then feel sad. Delete the WhatsApp messages and hide the photos from your phone. Unfollow your ex from Insta, you don’t need to see them having a great time in Bali with hot people.

Photo by Elle Hughes on Pexels