Hot to Move On from a Failed Relationship
Some people love being friends with their exes. While I applaud those people, I kind of think they’re partially insane.
Generally, when you date someone, you create a special bond and become a combination of best friends/lovers. So when you decide to break up, piecing together what to be after is hard. Just being best friends without the romance can feel odd, then again throwing in occasional friends with benefits can just leave you confused. For this reason, it’s just easier to start new, and this means ditching the ex.
This is probably the hardest part, but once the grieving period is over you need to move on and be independent. That final step is deleting the ex factor. Yes, this includes photos and such. After a while, you need to accept that things will never be the same so it’s time focus on improving you.
Makeover time
Do something new! Get a new tattoo or piercing. Change your hair to a completely new color. And while you’re at it, go on a shopping spree and spruce up your look. Focusing on creating a new and improved appearance will help you avoid any lingering sad feelings. So save up and slurge on yourself a little!
Tinder time
While you may think dating websites aren’t for you quite yet, everyone loves Tinder. It’s so easy, just swipe left or right to who’s hot or not. While this app will probably just be used as distraction, it has many benefits. For one, it’s a huge confidence booster. While some people use it to send creepy pickup lines, it’ll be sure to make you laugh and feel desired. And, if you’re lucky and open to it, I’ve actually known a handful of couples who met through Tinder and have happy, long REAL relationships.
Get out
While getting hit on Tinder is addicting, get some fresh air every now and then. Get a big group of friends to go out and take in the bar scene. See who can get the most free drinks and make a game out of it. Plus, this is a great chance to exchange numbers and socialize.
The exception
There are always exceptions to the rules. While I’m not a big believer in exes being BFFs, I do think they can be cordial in time. But, the exception is based on a situation-by-situation basis.
Some people can be friends with their exes because they didn’t date long, or maybe it was never really too serious. Others may justify befriending an ex because they are over the whole situation and the breakup wasn’t that bad in the long run.
But I warn you, do not befriend an ex with the intention to reconnect and spark a new flame. You can’t just pick up where you left off. If you are serious about a do-over, it can’t just be the same relationship. You need to talk it out and start new with no expectations, and both must equally want to give the relationship a second shot. If it’s not mutual, there’s no point and someone will get hurt.
So, just to be safe. If you plan on befriending an ex, tread in shallow waters, and I wish you the best of luck. For all those who just want to forget about your ex, that’s completely possible. Once you move on officially, you’ll wonder why you even bothered with him or her in the first place.
Born and raised in Northern Virginia, Christina aspires to be a public relations professional in a big city after graduation from James Madison University. In her free time when she’s not blogging away about dating and relationships, Christina loves to go shopping, watch Netflix and play with every puppy that crosses her path.