Has a recent split left you with what feels like a permanent hangover, a sudden lack of self-esteem and a slightly stale ensemble that suggests you haven't left the house or showered in several days? We've all been there.
Whether 'the one' called it off just as you were expecting a proposal, whether the arsehole cheated or whether it just wasn't working out... Break ups suck.
I have the medicine for desperate times today. A spoonful of sugar won't help you now. (Perhaps a shot of vodka?) After a couple of days of wallowing in your own self-pity and a glass of Pinot, you will rediscover the old and wonderful you, be back on your way to happy and leave whatshisface wondering what the hell he was thinking.
Avoid obsessive overanalyses
This includes re-reading old text messages, stalking his Facebook for any sign of a new girlfriend and asking your friends what he meant by 'it's not you, it's me'. Block him from any social networks you're both involved with, delete all of his texts and emails (along with his number and email address) and ask your friends to ignore any remark or question you make related to him. Be too busy to become obsessive. Go out with friends, take up a new hobby, or get fit. Do everything that'll make you feel better and forget about him.
Don't get over him by getting under someone else
Other men will happily pay you attention (obviously, look at you) and when we're newly single, it's easy to be flattered by just about anyone. Don't let yourself believe that you're actually into the first guy who comes at you with a cheesy chat up line. Take your time. And maybe drink less on nights out (while we're on the subject, if you're out and so is he, don't get drunk. You will cry and ask him if you're fat and make a tit of yourself).
Regain and enjoy your independence
Like I said, be too busy to become obsessive. Fill your days with things that make you happy and be so hectic that you don't have time to think or even care about the split. Join a gym and feel fantastic. Take an evening class and learn something new. Give yourself a new look. With the reluctance of sounding like a crazed dog-lady spinster (I'm heading that way); it's fun to do things by yourself and simply for yourself sometimes.
Treat yourself
Ignore the fact that you've been so very good at saving money. Treat yourself to some new clothes that make you feel great. Buy some new make-up, get your hair done and spend an evening with the company of face-masks, nail polishes and body scrubs. You'll feel amazing after a whole day spent pampering yourself.
Think of the end of a relationship as a new beginning. It's a chance to stand on your own two feet and make the most of your current singledom before a new and much, much better man comes along. Be entirely selfish and focus on yourself.
Go to places you've always wanted to visit, try things that you've always said you'd love to try, take life in a completely different direction simply because you're awesome and you can. If it didn't work out, it's because it wasn't supposed to.it’s time to be completely incredible on your own, you beautiful human being, you.
Image via epos.de's Flickr