Moving on from a recent breakup is easier said than done. Breakups are never pain-free and memories of the relationship can't just disappear in a day. That's why people often find themselves thinking about their ex after a breakup.
While it's normal to still hold on to the memories of your ex, it might have a negative influence on your life. Constantly thinking about your past relationship might hinder you from moving on and pursuing happiness in your life. If you're frustrated at how much you think about that person in the good old days, read on to find out how to stop thinking about your ex.
Ways to Forget Your Ex
The pain of missing your ex can interfere with your daily life. It can distract you from doing your daily chores and even stop you from getting into a new relationship. While it's okay to occasionally miss your ex after a breakup, you shouldn't allow yourself to constantly think about them.
Unfortunately, many people struggle with this problem, even after months or even years. Here are some proven tips to forget your ex.
1. Grieving is okay
As mentioned earlier, breakups are always painful. So, it's understandable if you feel hurt and sad after ending a relationship. The first step of moving on is to acknowledge your pain.
Accept that you might be experiencing some uncomfortable and awful emotions for a while. Don't try to suppress your emotions or sweep them under the rug. Doing so will only hinder you from healing. Cry if it can make you feel better. Let out all the bottled up emotions inside you and eventually, you'll feel relieved and ready to move on from your ex.
2. Talk to someone that is close to you
Carrying wounds alone will only burden you. Instead of experiencing everything alone, why not share your feelings with somebody close to you. Confide to a trustworthy friend or family member. Telling your story to someone else can help speed up the healing process. You'll be surprised at how you feel after you've shared your feelings with them.
3. Avoid contact with your ex
Want to know the best tips on how to stop thinking about your ex? Avoid all contacts with them. Don't text them, don't call them, don't even check their social media. You must accept that they're now a part of your past, not your present or future. So, you must treat them as such. Yes, the temptation to peek at their social media and see how they're doing is certainly huge. But, you must resist it if you truly want to move on from them.
4. Keep a log of your emotions
Writing down your thoughts and feelings allows you to take a step back and reassess your condition. It can help you get a new outlook and perspective in your situation. Write down all the thoughts that come across your mind and learn from them. Eventually, you'll be able to diffuse your emotions and detach yourself from the memories of your ex.
5. Pick a new hobby
If you keep thinking about your ex, try distracting yourself by doing some fun activities. Try to pick up a new hobby. Aside from helping you heal, picking up a new hobby can even give you new skills and allow you to meet new people. Here are some unique and fun hobbies you might want to try out:
-
Candle making
-
Painting
-
Blogging
-
Knitting and sewing
-
Learning a new language
-
Cooking and baking
-
Starting a podcast
-
Taking dance classes
6. Start working out
Did you know that working out can make people happier? So, if you've been feeling down and missing your ex, why not try working out? Plus, it can boost your health and confidence, perfect for someone who just went through a painful experience.
Try getting a gym membership and commit to working out regularly. Try to exercise at least three times a week with a minimum of 30 minutes each session. If going to the gym isn't your thing, then try some other fun exercise, such as swimming, cycling, running, or hiking. You'll find that working out can help distract you from the pain and release all the stress you've been feeling.
7. Stop clinging to past memories
Sometimes, when someone says "I can't stop thinking about my ex" they actually mean they can't stop clinging to their past memories. Each relationship has its own fair share of happy and joyful memories. But in the end, they're just that, memories.
Accept that those memories belong in the past and focus on the present instead. You may not be able to completely forget them, but you can minimize things that remind you of your ex. Try throwing out mementos, like photos, letters, and stuffed animals, that are associated with your ex. You can also make new happy memories. For example, plan a fun picnic with your friends at the park you used to go to with your ex. So in the future, you'll associate that place with your amazing friends instead of your ex.
8. Love yourself
When you're grieving and recovering from a breakup, you may feel unloved or even worthless. Please try not to feel that way. The end of a relationship can be the start of something new and exciting. Your future holds so much opportunity and happiness, so don't feel blue for too long.
Instead of wallowing in your sadness, use this experience as an opportunity to love yourself even more. Lift your spirits and confidence by engaging in constructive activities. Don't be afraid to treat yourself either. Don't know where to start? Try these activities:
-
Meditate
-
Get a spa treatment
-
Go on a shopping spree
-
Treat yourself to a delicious meal
-
Practice saying positive affirmatives regularly
-
Take care of your health
Take reins in your life. You're the only one who can control your happiness. Don't let memories of a past relationship stop you from loving yourself and achieving happiness.
Takeaway Message
So, have you figured out how to stop thinking about your ex? Moving on is never easy, but you must always remember to focus on the present instead of clinging to the past. Healing after a break up takes time. It's okay if you still remember you ex from time to time, but try to forget them little by little. Letting go of your ex will make you feel better and liberated. Good luck.