How to Move on From a Relationship

It's tough when a relationship comes to an end. You might feel like you're losing your best friend, or like the world is coming...

Marriage
March 21, 2025

It's tough when a relationship comes to an end. You might feel like you're losing your best friend, or like the world is coming to an end. But it's important to remember that you can get through this. Here are some tips on how to move on from a relationship.

Accept that the Relationship is Over

Breakups are never easy. Whether it's a relationship that just didn't work out or a marriage that ended in divorce, it can be tough to let go of the past and move on. It's important to remember that when a relationship ends, it's time to move on. Acceptance is the first step in the healing process. It's okay to be sad and to grieve the loss of the relationship, but at some point, you need to accept that it's over. Once you do, you can start to focus on the future and what new opportunities lie ahead.

So, if you're struggling to move on from a past relationship, don't be afraid to reach out for help. There are plenty of resources available to help you through this tough time.

a man looking sad sitting at a table

Give Yourself Time to Mourn the Loss of the Relationship

This doesn't mean wallowing in your sorrows for weeks on end, but it does mean acknowledging your feelings and permitting yourself to grieve. Some things you can say to yourself are:

  • It's okay to be sad.
  • I'm allowed to feel hurt.
  • I miss my ex, but I know we're not good together anymore.
  • I'm going to focus on healing myself now.

Once you have processed your emotions, you can begin to move on.

This may mean distancing yourself from your ex, focusing on your happiness, and/or meeting new people. This might also mean:

  • Unfollowing your ex on social media. Mutual friends may still post about your ex, so it can be helpful to distance yourself from those reminders as well.
  • Deleting old text messages and photos. It can be painful to see reminders of your past relationship, so it might be helpful to delete them.
  • Doing something to change your appearance. This could be something as simple as getting a new haircut or buying some new clothes.
  • Make a list of things you want to do for yourself. This may include taking up a new hobby, traveling, or spending more time with friends and family.

Whatever you do, just make sure that you are taking care of yourself and giving yourself the time and space you need to heal.

Don't Dwell on the Past - Focus on the Future

When it comes to moving on from a relationship, dwelling on the past will only hold you back. Instead, you should focus on the future and what lies ahead. This doesn't mean that you should forget about the past completely; after all, you can learn from your mistakes. But it does mean that you should make a conscious effort to focus on the present and future, rather than wallowing in self-pity over what has already happened.

By doing this, you'll be better positioned to move on and build a new life for yourself - one that is free from the pain of the past. Some ways you can focus on the future are:

  • Making plans for the future. What do you want to do with your life? What are your goals and aspirations?
  • Focusing on your career. If you're not happy with your current job, now is the time to make a change. Start looking for new opportunities and don't be afraid to take risks.
  • Building new relationships. Don't close yourself off to the idea of meeting someone new. If you're ready, start dating again and see where things go.

No matter what you do, just make sure that you're focusing on the future and not dwelling on the past.

Lean on Your Friends and Family for Support

One of the best things you can do during this time is to lean on your friends and family for support. These are the people who love you and want to see you happy, so they will be more than happy to help you through this tough time. They can offer a shoulder to cry on, a listening ear, and some much-needed advice. Additionally, they can help to distract you from your pain and help you to focus on positive things in your life. So, if you are struggling after a break-up, reach out to your loved ones for help.

a person looking at a waterfront

Get back Out There and Start Dating Again When You're Ready

This doesn't mean that you have to jump into another serious commitment right away. Instead, take things slow and focus on enjoying the process of getting to know someone new. Dates can be a great way to have fun and learn more about what you're looking for in a partner. As you start dating again, you'll also gain more insight into who you are and what you want in life. So if you're ready to start fresh, get back out there and start dating again.

Embrace Change - It's a Part of Life

Change is an inevitable part of life, and nowhere is this more apparent than in our relationships. Over time, people change and grow in ways that can take them in different directions from the ones they started out on.

While it can be painful to see a relationship change or come to an end, it's important to remember that embracing change is a necessary part of life. Some things you can say to yourself are:

  • "This is just a phase, things will get better."
  • "I'm going to be okay, I'm strong enough to handle this."

After all, without change, we would never be able to experience new things or grow as individuals. When you find yourself struggling to move on from a relationship, try to focus on the positive aspects of change. Change can be scary, but it can also bring new opportunities and experiences into your life. Embrace change and it will eventually lead you to new happiness.

Seek Professional Counseling if Needed

If you find that you just can't seem to move on from your past relationship, it may be time to seek professional counseling. A counselor can help you to work through your pain and see things from a different perspective. They can also offer guidance and support as you navigate this difficult time in your life. If you need help moving on from a relationship, don't be afraid to seek out professional counseling. It could be just what you need to get back on track.

Disclaimer

The information in this blog post is intended for informational purposes only. This content is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice or treatment from a licensed professional.

Conclusion

If you're struggling to move on from a relationship, know that you're not alone. Use the tips and advice in this blog post to help you through this tough time. And remember, Lean on your friends and family for support, get back out there and start dating again when you're ready, embrace change - it's a part of life, and seek professional counseling if needed. You'll get through this, and you'll be stronger for it.

Author
Jennifer Luttman, LPC, ACS

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, and owner of Overcomers Counseling. I'm dedicated to helping individuals find strength and healing through life’s challenges. With a deep understanding of mental health and years of professional experience, I specialize in fostering hope and resilience while equipping her clients with tools to thrive. Passionate about empowering others, she creates a safe, supportive space where everyone feels seen, valued, and capable of overcoming obstacles on their path to well-being.

Common Questions about Marriage

What are abandonment issues?

Abandonment issues refer to a set of emotional struggles that can result from experiences of rejection, neglect, or loss in childhood or adulthood. People with abandonment issues may have difficulty forming and maintaining healthy relationships, experience intense fear of abandonment, and struggle with self-esteem.

What if my spouse refuses to get help?

If your spouse is resistant to treatment, you might need to get help from a professional. An interventionist can work with you and your family to plan a confrontation that will encourage your spouse to seek help.

Is everything we discuss in therapy confidential?

Yes, therapists are bound by confidentiality rules, and anything you discuss in therapy is kept private, with a few exceptions related to safety and legal issues.

How do you rebuild trust in a marriage after lying?

The first step is to take responsibility for your actions and apologize. Next, be honest with your thoughts and feelings. Show that you're willing to change and be a better partner. Finally, set some boundaries to help prevent future hurt. Remember to be patient as it takes time to rebuild trust.

How can I find my love language?

There are many resources available online, including quizzes and assessments, that can help you find your love language. Gary Chapman's book, "The 5 Love Languages," is also a great resource to help you identify and understand your love language.

Is the information shared in couples counseling kept confidential?

Yes, therapists are bound by ethical guidelines and legal requirements to maintain client confidentiality. This means that the information shared during your couples counseling sessions will not be disclosed to anyone without your written consent, except in cases where there is a risk of harm to yourself or others, or when required by law. It is essential to discuss any concerns about confidentiality with your therapist at the beginning of therapy to ensure a safe and trusting therapeutic environment.