Okay, so the apartment’s quiet, right? Like, really quiet. You’re staring at the ceiling, and it hits you—that other half of your life? Gone. Just… gone. You probably keep reaching for your phone, that one person you always texted, and then you’re like, “Oh, wait.” It’s a weird kind of shock, especially when you’ve been a “we” for ages. This whole drama after a long relationship breaks up thing? It’s like suddenly losing your shadow. What do you even do with all this… you?
Seriously, the world just keeps buzzing along, doesn’t it? Your friends mean well, but sometimes their advice just feels… off. And your brain? It’s like a broken record player, stuck on rewind, playing all those old moments, trying to figure out what it all meant. That future you had planned together? Poof. Now it’s just this big, blank space in front of you. Figuring out what to do after a long relationship breaks up feels like trying to find your way in the dark. It’s a whole new level of “what now?”
But look, this isn’t about pretending it doesn’t suck, because it totally does. It’s about facing it, you know? Think of it like a detour you didn’t ask for, but maybe it’ll take you to some cool new places. This is your chance to remember what you like, those things you may have put on hold. It’s about building yourself back up, one step at a time. Healing after a long relationship breaks up? It’s your own journey, for sure. But some things can help you find your footing again. Ready to see what those are?
7 Things to Do After A Long Relationship Breaks Up
So you’re in that post-long relationship break zone, huh? It feels strange, like a limb you relied on is suddenly gone. But trust me, you’ll find your balance again. Here are seven things that can help you navigate this and start moving forward.
Feel All the Feels (Yes, Even the Ugly Ones)
It’s tempting to slap on a brave face and pretend you’re totally fine, especially after a long relationship breaks up. But you’re human, and you’ve experienced a significant loss. So, let yourself feel it—the sadness, the anger, the confusion, even the weird relief that might bubble up. Don’t bottle it up; find healthy ways to express it. Cry it out, talk to a trusted friend, journal your thoughts. Acknowledging your emotions is the first step towards healing. It’s okay to not be okay for a while.
Reconnect With Your Tribe
Remember those friends you might have unintentionally sidelined a bit during your relationship? Now’s the perfect time to lean on them. Reach out, plan some hangouts, and let their support lift you. These are the people who knew you before the “we” and will be there to remind you of your awesome “you.” Spending time with people who care about you can make a huge difference in navigating life after a long relationship breaks up. Their laughter and understanding can be incredibly comforting.
Rediscover Your “You”
Long relationships often involve compromise, and sometimes, little pieces of your individual identity can get tucked away. Now is your chance to dust them off! What hobbies did you used to love? What were your passions before you became part of a couple? Re-engaging with these things can be incredibly empowering and help you reconnect with who you are as an individual. This period after a long relationship breaks up is a fantastic opportunity for self-discovery.
Establish New Routines
Your daily life was likely intertwined with your partner’s. Now, creating new routines can provide a sense of stability and normalcy. This could be anything from setting a consistent morning ritual to joining a new exercise class or scheduling regular coffee dates with friends. These new patterns will help you adjust to your changed circumstances and create a sense of forward momentum after the long relationship breaks up. It’s about building a new rhythm for your life.
Practice Self-Care Like It’s Your Job
This isn’t about bubble baths and face masks (though those can be nice!). This is about truly nurturing yourself—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, eating well, and moving your body. Be kind and patient with yourself during this vulnerable time after a long relationship breaks up. Engage in activities that bring you joy and peace. Remember, you deserve care and compassion, especially from yourself.
Set Small, Achievable Goals
The future might feel overwhelming right now. Instead of focusing on the big picture, try setting small, manageable goals. This could be anything from finishing a book to trying a new recipe or exploring a different part of your city. Achieving these little wins can boost your confidence and give you a sense of accomplishment as you navigate life after a long relationship breaks up. It’s about taking baby steps forward.
Give Yourself Time and Be Patient
Healing from a long relationship break up isn’t a race. There will be good days and bad days, and that’s perfectly normal. Don’t put pressure on yourself to “get over it” quickly. Allow yourself the time and space you need to process your emotions and adjust to your new reality. Be kind and patient with yourself throughout this journey. You will heal, and you will emerge stronger and wiser on the other side.
Knowing what to do after a long relationship breaks up isn’t easy, but it’s definitely doable. Think of these seven things not as a strict to-do list but as guiding lights in what can feel like a pretty dark tunnel. You’re essentially rebuilding your world, brick by individual brick, and that takes time and intention. Remember that feeling all those feelings, reconnecting with your friends, and rediscovering yourself are all vital parts of this process.
Establishing new routines and actively practising self-care will provide you with the stability and nourishment you need during this transition. And by setting those small, achievable goals, you’ll start to see progress, even on the tougher days. The most crucial thing to remember, though, is to be patient with yourself. Healing isn’t linear; there will be ups and downs. But with each step you take, you’re moving closer to a new chapter, one where you are whole and complete on your own.
Till I come your way again, don’t forget to subscribe to Doyin’s Honest Notes and enjoy a drop of honey for your day…