How to Move on From a Guy

Whether you left a guy or he left you, it can be challenging to move on from the relationship. If you have invested time and emotion into your ex, you may feel depleted and disappointed at the end of the relationship. Here are some ways to move on successfully from your past and into your bright future.

Instructions

1. Take a vacation. Stepping away from your day-to-day life and going somewhere new will help you gather perspective on your life. Go with a friend, or go by yourself, but definitely go some place that you've never been. Popular destinations include the beach and the mountains. Go to a place with beautiful scenery. Reward yourself for being a survivor. Being in a different destination reminds you that there's more to life than the world you created with your ex.

2. Be with friends. Now is the time to surround yourself with those who love and care for you. Don't shut yourself in with the blinds closed. Hang out with your friends, go to the movies, go out to eat, let them come over and cheer you up. That's exactly what friends are for.

3. Throw away all of the mementos from your relationship. Don't keep toys he won you at the carnival or pictures of you together. Set aside a day, invite a best friend over and throw away everything that reminds you of him. If it's something of value (like clothing he bought you), donate it to charity. It's good to purge your life of all reminders of your time together.

4. Get a haircut. Changing your hair is something that frees you mentally from the ties to your past. You are also changing your image, so you're no longer "his" girl, you're a new girl.

5. Try a free makeover. Go to the mall and get all dolled up at one of the beauty counters. If you already wear makeup, try something totally different. It will show you a different potential for your life.

6. Go out looking your best.

7. Listen to happy music. Turn off the Sade and Coldplay. Find something you can dance to. Celebrate your life and your health. Dance by yourself or go out dancing with friends.

8. Start a gratitude journal. Write three things you're grateful for each day. If you're not good with writing things on paper, start a private blog online. The more you force yourself to think of the positive, the more positive you'll feel.

9. Read "Enchanted Love" by Marianne Williamson. It will help you understand that there's more to life than the guy you're no longer with, and that there's another guy who's better suited for you out there. Be inspired to wait for the right love.

Tips & Warnings

• Try the MAC makeup counter for a free makeover during weekdays.

• Indulge at a nice restaurant you've always wanted to try when you go out with friends.

• Don't let your sadness overtake you.

• Cutting hair is a drastic step, so make sure you get a style that you can live with.

• Don't watch romantic comedies until you really believe love will come again.

Resources

• Enchanted Love, by Marianne Williamson