How to Let Go of a Long-Term Relationship

It's possible to rebuild yourself emotionally after a breakup

When you end a long-term relationship, it can be difficult to let go because you've invested many years and a lot of effort into ut. One thing you want to do is examine what went wrong in the relationship and learn what you can do to avoid those same problems in your next relationship. Another thing you want to do is not feel bad about yourself because of the breakup, because sometimes relationships don't work out for various reasons, and that it's possible to rebuild your life.

Instructions

1. Avoid all contact with your ex-partner. Erase the person's email address, phone number and mailing address from your address book. Don't go near your ex-partner's home or job, and don't contact his friends and relatives.

2. Get support from family and friends. Talk to them about your struggles to accept the end of your relationship and pay attention to any guidance they may give you regarding how to move on. If your sister tells you that you need to take a break from dating, don't get defensive. Realize that she wants you to be emotionally whole before you enter a new relationship.

3. Find new interests and goals. If you feel stuck in your current career as a journalist and you want to work with children, seek out opportunities in fields such as teaching, nonprofit work or social services. Or if you always wanted to plant a vegetable garden, purchase some books and magazines on how to get started.

References

• Psychology Today: How to Get Through a Breakup