Getting Over a Bad Romance

Just about everyone has had a romance go sour at some time in his or her lives. If you are facing this type of thing for the first time, you're probably experiencing all sorts of conflicting emotions right now. In time, things will begin to sort out, but in the meantime, here are some ideas that will help you start healing and let you get back to the business of living.

First, get angry. Too many people try to stifle their anger and hurt when a romance ends, even when it wasn't all that good to begin with. You have a right to be upset. Claim that right, and you will have taken the first step to defusing that anger and starting to heal.

Vent that anger in productive ways. Go to the gym and punch out a punching bag. Take long walks. Write a long letter to your former love interest, and don't hold anything back. The physical activity is good for your mind as well as your body. As for the letter, just writing it will help you begin to organize your own jumbled feelings and start to get over the romance. Once it is written, you can always tear it up.

Don't hide from everyone. Sure, a broken romance is embarrassing. But nothing gets better by keeping your distance from loved ones. Start going out to dinner with friends, spend more time with your siblings, and give yourself permission to attend concerts, sporting events, and whatever else you once enjoyed doing before you met you-know-who. The faster you reclaim your life, the better you will feel.

Take it easy in the romance department. Too many people think that a quick dive back into the dating pool will wash away all the hurt. For most of us, it doesn't work that way. Take a breather from dating, and concentrate on nurturing the other relationships in your life. Once things are back on an even keel, someone interesting will come along, and you can give romance another try.

Your life is not over after one bad romance. Give yourself some time to mourn the loss, then get back up and start all over again. With a little luck, that special someone you have been looking for is just around the corner.