Tell the person, “I just want to acknowledge that ending this relationship didn’t feel good. I know it’s going to be hard and awkward to see each other for a while. I will do my best to respect your boundaries and I would appreciate you doing the same. ” This may lead to further discussion at which time you can reinforce your expectations. It is important to acknowledge the relationship was important to your personal development, regardless of how short or involved it was. If you deny the feelings associated with the break-up and pretend that it wasn’t important, you won’t learn from the experience.
There are stages to the grieving process that can be used as a guide to understanding your own unique experience with grief: denial, numbness and shock; bargaining; depression; anger; acceptance. [2] X Research source Start a grief journal and write about the feelings you are having in each stage. Grief is an individual journey. Everyone experiences it differently. You may spend more time in one stage versus another. Don’t rush yourself and don’t allow others to rush you through your grief. There is a time to grieve and it is essential to the healing process.
Tell yourself, “I can do this. I can work around this guy because I’m strong and I’m going to be okay. ”
Be friendly if you see the person. Try saying something like “Hi! How are you?" because the friendliness will keep your interactions smooth. You can try to avoid the person if there is a way, though.
Participating in an activity that you enjoy will help you pass the time and will help balance the intense emotions you might be feeling. [4] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Take a break from your worries by watching movies or binge-watch TV shows. Stay away from romantic comedies and love stories that might add to your struggle. Play board games or join a book club to redirect your time and attention.
Take a different route when you come into the work environment. Work around a person’s daily routine so you don’t cross paths. Sit across the room or out of sight in class. Do what you have to in order to create space between you and the person. This will give you a sense progress toward adjusting to the situation. Don’t wait for him to move away from you. You need to distance yourself from him, so do it as soon as possible.
Feel the relief of not having to worry about the other person or be concerned with the drama they brought into your life. Spend time outside of work developing healthy relationships with friends, and others who could become romantic interests.
Focusing on the positive will guard against being pulled into negative discussions. [6] X Research source No one can take your power away from you if you remain positive. Reacting to an agitating remark will give your power to the other person. You are in control and responsible for your feelings. It is an important job.
Discuss it later with a trusted friend or family member, which will allow you to process the feelings that were stirred up. Venting your feelings is a legitimate way of processing feelings and will probably make you feel better.
Silence isn’t being rude. Remember, a lot of people are uncomfortable with silence so they may say things or ask you things. Answer them in a manner that you see fit.
People might say things like, “Did you do something different? You look great. ” Your response can be, “Thank you. Yes, I decided to be happy and it is working for me. ”
