Almost all of us have had our share of topsy-turvy relationships. Some have been swoon-worthy, and some absolutely lousy! Without fail, everyone has been through at least one bad breakup. Many women think from the heart rather than the mind, which is why some women take an emotional dive after a breakup. We all know it’s tough picking up the pieces of your broken heart later, but it has to be done.

Just because you’ve had a bad relationship in the past does not mean your future isn’t bright. You must get back in the game! No emotional turmoil is easy, but it’s what you do later that really counts! A few bad relationships in the past shouldn’t stop you from seeking happiness again. No one deserves to live life in a dark hole. Katie, from Orla James, believes that every dark cloud has a silver lining. She’s a firm believer of the ideology that time is the best healer. You have to be open to thinking about the future positively and embrace the fact that you can have a happy future too!

Let’s look at ways that you can get back into the relationship game.

Get out of the house

We cannot stress how important it is to stop moping and get out of the house. While the tub of chocolate ice cream and never-ending Friends re-runs seem fantastic, you absolutely need to get rid of your pajamas and step out into the sunlight. The more you think about your ex-partner, the more it will eat you alive. Give your friends a call, make a plan, and step out! Dress up nicely, put on a pair of new earrings and your favorite shoes, and go out for a couple of drinks.

If you’re planning to go to a local pub, put on a little eyeliner and lipstick and have fun! Shake a leg on the dance floor or enjoy yourself by singing lively tunes in a karaoke sing-off. There’s a very good chance someone new might notice you and smile – if this happens, smile back!

Stop talking about your ex-partner

You must stop talking about your ex-partner constantly. If you happen to meet someone new, don’t talk about your old partner. Instead, enjoy the uniqueness of the new person in front of you. Just as you are different for them, they are different for you. Give your new acquaintance your undivided attention. For all you know, this new fantastic person might be sailing the same relationship boat as you.

No one wants to be bogged down by old emotional baggage. The whole point of moving on is to think positively and walk a new path. Once you realize this, your life will become easier, and you will slowly but surely stop thinking about your old partner. If you’ve been asked out, then go and enjoy your time. Have fun!

Trust your friends

Your friends have probably seen you through some pretty hard times. Trust their judgment and advice when it comes to thinking about new people. Let them know that you’re open to meeting new people. Even if you’re not interested in relationships at the moment, meeting new people and changing your outlook will help immensely.

Starting to meet new people will take your heart and mind off the forbidden ex-partner topic and you might get to improve your friend’s circle with some interesting new people. Whether you get into a relationship or make a new friend, you’re moving ahead with a positive outlook!

Consider current friends

Is there someone in your existing friend group who you may have previously overlooked? The best part about dating a friend is that you’re already comfortable with them and there’s no lingering awkwardness. Your friend already knows which tea or coffee you like, and which places you like to eat at. Besides which, they also probably know that you’ve gotten out of a lousy breakup and need some time to get your head space back once again.

Taking things slow and easy with existing friends is the nicest way to ease back into your old life. If nothing else, you might decide that you both are better off as friends anyway. But till you don’t decide this, it’s fine to meet up every now and then.

Remember that you are unique and special. There are countless options and opportunities for a smart woman to choose from. You just have to think positively and search for that lost confidence. No matter how hard you think it is right now, it will get better. You will mess up ahead too, but you need to be able to smile again at the end of it. That’s what really matters! We wish you all the best for your future. There’s something beautiful on the horizon that’s just waiting for you to embrace it!