How To Get Over An Ex In Five Steps

GeekGoesGlam is a self-help guru-in-training. We have a feeling she'll have her own book series, podcasts, and talk show in 10 years! —SparkNotes editors

There is this one person and s/he is your life. You think about this person constantly. You doodle her name in the margins of your notebooks and all over the back of your calculator. You love being with her—and then, suddenly, it's over.

When you break up, your feelings for the other person, and the good things you see in him, don't go away instantly. But by following my five step plan, CAOGI (no, it does not mean Can Any Other Guy/Girl Interest Me?), you will be over the ex fast, no matter how hot s/he is. Before you hit the rocky road ice cream, try this:

Step One: Cry.

You just broke up. You may be heartbroken or you may be doubting yourself. Regardless, know that it is all right to cry. Talk to your parents or relatives about your feelings. While you may feel mom is old and dad will never understand, they probably know more than you give them credit for. Your parents often have way more experience than your friends. Get both their advice and comfort.

Hide anything that reminds you of the ex. Take down the pictures, put away the tees, and pack up the presents. Store them under your bed or in a safe place until you feel better about the situation as a whole. And then, cry some more.

Step Two: Analyze.

Write down every little detail from the relationship. Not only does it feel better to vent, but it will also help you reflect on the positive. It may be over, but you do not want to walk away with only negative feelings. Then, write down what you learned from the relationship. Each girl/boyfriend teaches y0u a new lesson.

For example, say there was “someone else.” Write down all the signs you recognize in hindsight, so you'll know how to identify them next time. Make a list of what you will do again in your next relationship, and what you will do differently.

Step Three: Occupy.

What is the best way to forget someone? Stop thinking about her, of course!!! Keep yourself busy. Whenever you become upset, decide to work out instead of snacking. Not only is it healthier, but the adrenaline will also help you focus on the workout instead of your problems. This is also a perfect time to catch up on schoolwork, chores, and SparkLife.

Step Four: Guys/Girls

Acknowledge that other people are out there. Leave that cute guy/girl in your chemistry class a photo comment. Chat up the hottie at the mall. Look up pictures of celebrity crushes. There are other people out there, and if your ex is the One, he will return to you when the timing is right. If you have a Facebook or MySpace page, review photo comments people of the opposite sex have left you in the past. Chances are that more than one person is interested in you.

Step Five: Impress.

Look great and feel great. Write down five of life’s simple pleasures, like sunshine on your face, and try to experience them today. Keep your head and your hopes held high. You may even remain friends with your ex in the end.

As you walk out the door, look at your reflection and say out loud “sexy, smart, confident.” Know that you are all of these things, and no one, male or female, can ever change that.

How do you deal with breakups?

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