At some point in our lives, many of us have found ourselves stuck in a relationship that failed to meet our needs, and yet, we found it hard to walk away from the person who caused more drama than joy. For any number of reasons including the delicate nature of our self-esteem, leaving a bad relationship can be quite challenging. Even so, there are ways to move on that can leave you feeling empowered with a sense of self-love, instead of feeling like you’ve just been run over by a truck. Here are some empowering ways you can walk out the door with your head held high:
Envision your dream relationship
We all have ideas about what we want in a relationship. Think about all of the hours you’ve spent daydreaming about your ideal partner, and all of the adventures you would share. Now compare that dream to what is currently happening in your relationship. Is your reality anywhere close to your dream? If not, then you need to consider getting on with your life, so that your dream person will find you single and ready to enjoy their company.
Stop rationalizing the other person’s poor behavior
When we’re in a relationship, it can be hard to face the truth about the other person’s treatment towards us. Our natural tendency is to find excuses for their behavior. Stop justifying your partner’s poor behavior. Get honest about what is occurring, and ask yourself if you want to continue in a relationship where you’re being mistreated or where your desires are not being met.
Create a plan for your exit
Once you have decided to leave the relationship, give some thought to how you want to leave and implement a strategy for your departure. Like all other areas of our lives, the better prepared we are, the more likely we are to succeed at our goal.
Stand in your integrity
Nobody said leaving would feel good. In fact, saying goodbye to someone you care about or love is incredibly difficult. Nonetheless, you deserve to have the relationship you want, and that means you have to stand firm in your choice. Practice compassion and forgiveness, and establish your parameters of how you will behave and operate, even if the other person is angry or spiteful.
Gather with your tribe
It can be easy to isolate yourself if you are sad or depressed about the break-up, but that is the worst thing you can do. Instead, gather with your entrusted friends, talk and spend time with them. Engage in activities that help you feel good and bring you joy, even if you feel like you’re just going through the motions. This will benefit you during the painful transition time after the relationship has ended.
Give yourself time
Even when you leave a relationship empowered, knowing it was the right thing to do, you may still be heartbroken. Don’t pretend you’re not in pain and don’t try to numb yourself. Instead, this an opportunity to take care of yourself, be compassionate and loving with yourself, and allow yourself the time you need to mourn your loss.
