Unrequited love can unexpectedly enter anyone’s life, leaving a mark that can be difficult to erase. Overcoming it is often a challenging process, taking months—or in the worst cases—years. We aim to help you navigate this experience more smoothly.
How to move on from Unrequited Love?
Sometimes, unrequited love fades with time. Other times, it lingers, causing significant emotional pain. You might need support to overcome the hurt.
1. Practice acceptance
It’s natural to feel romantic emotions toward certain people. Feeling ashamed of these emotions can create unnecessary obstacles to your healing process.
If possible, try to view unrequited love as an invitation to learn more about yourself and experience personal growth. You will get through this.
2. Explore your needs
Self-awareness is often the first step toward change.
“If you find yourself in a pattern of unrequited love, I recommend engaging in some self-reflection,” says Robinson. “Look into where these patterns might originate. Once you’ve identified the source […], you can take steps to rebuild those patterns.”
Reflective journaling can be a helpful way to begin this process.
Ask yourself questions such as:
- Is this the first time I’ve felt this way?
- When did these feelings start?
- What did I learn about love during my childhood?
- What are my needs?
- How would it feel to start a relationship with someone who genuinely cares for me?
3. Set conscious boundaries
Establishing some boundaries can help you feel more in control.
These boundaries might include:
- Limiting interactions with the person
- Redirecting your thoughts consciously
- Unfollowing them on social media
- Avoiding daydreaming or fantasizing about them
4. Expand your horizons
Broadening your social circle can help you form new connections.
Consider:
- Going on dates with other people
- Taking up a new hobby
- Reconnecting with old friends
- Spending more time with family
- Volunteering and helping others
5. Seek Support
There’s no shame in asking for help, whether from trusted friends or a professional therapist.
Tomlin suggests that connecting with a therapist can be helpful to explore early childhood relationships.
“A cognitive-behavioral therapist (CBT) can assist with cognitive restructuring techniques to identify and change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors,” Tomlin adds.
Source: Unrequited Love: Meaning, Signs, and Tips to Overcome It (psychcentral.com)
