When relationships end, we go through a feeling of loss. It causes a lot of pain and emotions all at once.

Breakups are tough. The more important the person is to you, the more heartache you may feel. The more serious the relationship, the harder it can be to move on.

Know that you aren’t alone. 64% of Americans have had their hearts broken from long-term relationships.

It’s not impossible to feel happiness during this time!

Let’s talk about how to be happy again after a broken heart. These tips can help you bounce back stronger than before.

Can You Be Happy Single?

Of course, you can! It’s a matter of perspective.

It might not seem like it while you’re feeling the post-breakup sadness. Give it time, and you’ll see how having a relationship with yourself can be rewarding.

Being single actually opens a lot of doors.

You’ll have more time for your hobbies, family, and friends. You’ll be able to spoil yourself more. It’s a fantastic time to try new things that you’ve personally wanted to do!

And once you’ve recovered from the sadness, you’ll return stronger than ever.

Is Being Alone the Same as Being Lonely?

No!

a smiling woman sitting cross legged on her living room couch watching TV while eating popcorn

It’s commonly believed that being single means you’re lonely. However, this isn’t the case.

The main difference between being lonely and being alone is the emotional attachment. Loneliness is a feeling, while being alone is a state of mind.

We can be perfectly happy being by ourselves but also feel lonely with other people.

It’s okay to be alone at times. When you’re alone, you can reflect, relax, and enjoy your own company.

On the other hand, it’s possible to be surrounded by people and feel lonely and isolated.

The key to how to be happy alone is to learn how to be comfortable in your own skin, regardless of whether you’re alone or with others. Embrace the moments of solitude when you can and reach out for help if loneliness begins to overwhelm you.

How to Be Happy After a Breakup

Nothing is impossible, and finding happiness after a breakup is no exception. If you’re struggling to be happy after a breakup, try these tips:

1. Give Each Other Some Space

A breakup is an emotional human experience.

If you want to remain friends with your ex, give each other time to feel sad.

If your old partner asks for space, you need to respect it. Don’t call or text. You’re both trying to find yourselves again.

Set your own boundaries, and make them clear to your ex. Don’t feel you must respond if they message you and you’re not ready.

Time heals all wounds, and eventually, you will both be in a better place and feel ready to meet up again.

person standing on top of a mountain looking at the sunset over water

2. Give Yourself Time to Grieve

A breakup is a loss of an important person in your life, so it’s okay to let yourself grieve. Grieving is one of the most critical steps to beginning your healing journey and getting your life back.

The key is not to be afraid to feel pain. Acknowledge your emotions and negative feelings, but don’t dwell on them. Be careful not to wallow in episodes of self-pity or blame yourself for the split.

The more complicated the breakup, the more time you’ll likely need to take. That’s okay. By dealing with your pain, you’re giving yourself the opportunity for personal growth and to come out stronger and happier.

As time passes, you’ll find you need to grieve less and less. The hurt will fade, and you’ll be able to think about your past relationship without as much pain.

3. Disconnect From Social Media

After a breakup, consider taking a break from social media.

We aren’t saying to delete your social media accounts. Just be careful how you use them during this time.

Moving forward after a breakup can be difficult with the ever-present nature of social media. Social platforms may tempt you to check up on your ex or overanalyze their new relationship. You may obsess over what they’re doing without you and get frustrated, angry, or jealous.

If you find yourself doing this, log off. Take a break from social media until you’re in a better headspace. You can always come back when you’re ready.

young woman reading with her legs elevated on her desk

4. Embrace Healthy Support

Your support system is essential to your healing process. Find comfort in your family, friends, or even your cuddly pet.

Talk through your situation with a good friend. Talking to a friend can do wonders for your mental health. It helps to lift some of that painful weight off your shoulders. It can help you process and overcome negative thoughts and emotions.

You can also find support through online forums and groups. There are online communities of people who can relate and provide support and advice.

If you struggle to move on, consider talking to a professional therapist. A therapist can help you healthily work through your negative thoughts and emotions and help you find new perspectives that can lead to healing.

two women drinking coffee and having a conversation

5. Don’t Blame Yourself or Your Ex

It’s tempting to try to assign blame for a breakup. You might blame yourself for not being good enough. You might blame your ex for being selfish or cruel. Blaming yourself or your ex will only make you feel worse.

Relationships are complicated, and there isn’t always an apparent reason why they end. It’s important to remember that it takes two people to make a relationship work. You need to accept that sometimes, it just doesn’t work out.

Instead of dwelling on who is to blame, focus on how to move on from the breakup and be happy again.

6. Forgive

Forgiving yourself and your ex after a breakup is one of the most challenging but essential things you must do. Remember that everyone makes mistakes and that you’re not perfect, either.

Forgiving your ex will help you move on from the relationship and start fresh. Forgiving yourself will allow you to learn from your mistakes and grow.

Let go of any anger or resentment you may be feeling and any grudges you may be holding. These negative emotions will only prevent you from moving on. Instead, focus on the positive aspects of your life and the future you’re looking forward to.

7. Change Up Your Space

Changing up your space is a great way to embrace change in life. This is helpful, especially if your ex-partner was living with you.

You don’t need to move into a new place. You can refresh your home by rearranging the furniture, getting new sheets and towels, and adding new artwork.

Get rid of any items that remind you of your ex. This will help you declutter, start fresh, and create a space that is only for you.

8. Give Yourself Some Alone Time

Sometimes your own company is the best, especially when dealing with painful emotions.

You’ll have time to reflect and find that you deserve to be happy.

Try activities that make you feel good, and keep yourself busy so you’re not tempted to dwell on your breakup. Learn something new, listen to happy music, cook a delicious meal, or just sit back and relax.

If you’re struggling to come up with things you love to do, read this article on how to find what makes you happy.

9. Start Exercising

If you need a way to boost your mood naturally, exercise regularly. Exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-elevating effects. It can also help take your mind off your ex and provide a much-needed distraction from the heartache.

If you’re not into going to the gym, there are plenty of other ways to get active. You can go hiking or take a dance class. You can go on a virtual walk with a friend or join an online yoga class.

Exercise is a great way to get your mind back to being focused on you! You can get a healthy dose of social interaction when exercising in groups. Soon, you’ll even start seeing your confidence increase as you become more physically fit.

10. Spend Time Helping Others

Giving back to your community is a great way to lead a fulfilling life and feel good after a breakup.

Volunteering can give you a sense of purpose and community. It’s also a fantastic way to meet new friends.

You can help others in many ways – you’ll likely find something that suits your skills, interests, and availability. You can volunteer at a soup kitchen or a retirement home, donate clothing, or find meaningful work at your favorite charity.

You can also help others in your own social circle. Check on your friends and family members. Offer to help with projects or errands and be there for someone who may need a shoulder to cry on. You’ll find that by helping others, you’re also helping yourself heal after a breakup.

11. Get Creative

It is important to find a creative outlet after a breakup. Creativity is therapeutic and can help you stay positive during this difficult time. It can help you express your emotions and start to move on.

Some ideas for creative outlets are painting, drawing, writing a song, or even starting a blog. You’ll find that being creative is a great way to distract yourself and focus on something positive.

hand holding a paintbrush over a palette of paint

12. Spoil Yourself

Self-love is essential; there’s no better time to spoil yourself than after a breakup.

Practice self-love by pampering yourself with a hot bath, a weekend away, or a relaxing massage.

Be your own best friend during this time. Show love to yourself as you would to others going through a tough time. You absolutely deserve it!

13. Practice Gratitude

It may seem counterintuitive, but one of the best ways to feel better after a breakup is to focus on gratitude.

Be grateful for the memories and experiences you shared with your ex and the lessons you learned from the relationship. Your future relationships will be stronger and more fulfilling because of what you went through.

In life, when one door closes, another one opens. Even though it doesn’t feel like it right now, another door has been opened for you to be with someone who makes you happy. Be grateful that you are now free to pursue new relationships and experiences.

Don’t rush into another relationship. Appreciate the time you have now to reflect on your own needs and desires and focus on yourself. Now is a great time to pursue new hobbies or interests, dedicate yourself to self-care, or reconnect with old friends. The possibilities are endless.