What to Do After a Break-Up

It's officially over, the two of you have decided to move in different directions and you know there is no turning back. You may be relieved, heartbroken, or stunned, all natural reations to something that wasn't working.

It may seem like the end of something important but in fact it is the beginning of something even more important: your future.

There are steps you can take to get over a break-up and move forward. The last thing you want to do is nothing!

1. Stay busy- Sitting around and thinking about the past will only make things worse. Go shopping, run errands, visit family members, volunteer, see a movie or go for a walk in the park. When you are in new or different places your mind is occupied with what is going on around you and can't bog down in what if's or self loathing.

2. Work on your body. Exercise is a wonderful anti-depressant for two reasons: a. it releases hormones that stimulate your brain in a positive manner, and exercise keeps you busy so you don't have time to dwell on the past. The added benefit of 'working out your grief' is that the rocking body you build will make your former mate wish they had stayed. (But you'll be glad they didn't!)

3. Take classes- New information fills the space vacated by your former mate with good information. You may meet some really interesting people and happen upon some exciting events by paying attention during class breaks and socializing with classmates after.

4. Change your phone number- You can start over by only giving your new number to people you want to talk to and reduce the chance that you will give-in and go back to something that has been painful to you in the past. The only way to keep moving forward is to not look back.

5. Work on your resume- One good way to feel good about yourself is to take stock of what you have accomplished. When you look over your achievements it can be a real confidence booster and remind you of what you are worth to the world. Resume looking tired? This is the time to change it! Make a list of things you would like to put on a future resume and get started!

6. Get a makeover- A fresh haircut, a new pair of shoes, and a pair of crisp jeans will boost your confidence and lift your spirits. You can clean up the look you have going or do something drastic. A change will do you good!

Regardless of the reason for the break-up, the reason for the recovery is simple. You have a bright future waiting for you with one less obstacle now! All you have to do is begin.