it can be really difficult to see when we're making progress through breakups because so much of the
"progress" is just returning to life as normal. we tend to naturally be hard on ourselves not notice the small steps we’re making, so if any of these resonate with you, you’re definitely starting to move on!
... Read moreIt’s funny how breakups can make you feel like you’re stuck in quicksand, right? We’re constantly questioning if we’re making any progress, or if we’ll ever truly be ourselves again. I've been there, staring at my reflection and wondering if the pain would ever fade. But what I've learned is that healing isn't a straight line, and often, the biggest strides are in the smallest, most unexpected moments. These are the *signs you’re moving on*, even when it feels like you're not.
One of the biggest hurdles for me was reclaiming spaces that held so many memories. Our favorite restaurant, the park bench where we had deep chats, even just walking past their old apartment. For a long time, these places felt tainted, almost like landmines. But then, one day, I found myself casually grabbing a coffee at 'our' old spot, and instead of a wave of sadness, I felt… calm. I was *able to go to places that held significance for the two of you and create new experiences*. It wasn't about erasing the past, but about writing new chapters in those familiar settings, entirely for myself. That's when I knew a real shift was happening.
Another huge win is when your thoughts about them are *less obsessive and don't fully derail your day*. Initially, my mind was a constant loop of 'what ifs' and 'why did it happen?' Every song on the radio, every couple I saw, even a random word could send me spiraling for hours. But gradually, those thoughts started to lose their grip. Instead of a day-long emotional battle, it became a fleeting moment. I could acknowledge the thought and then genuinely move on to what I was doing, whether it was work, a hobby, or just enjoying a quiet evening. This freedom from constant rumination is such a powerful indicator that you’re truly detaching and focusing on your own life.
And then there’s the jealousy. Oh, the jealousy! The idea of them moving on with someone else used to send a cold dread through me. I’d scour social media, create fictional scenarios in my head, and just feel utterly miserable. But as time went on, I reached a point where I could *think about them moving on without feeling as jealous as you have before*. It wasn't that I didn't care at all, but the sharp, agonizing sting had dulled into a distant ache, or sometimes, no ache at all. It was a sign that my self-worth wasn't tied to their presence in my life anymore. This realization was incredibly liberating and solidified my decision to *never get back with an ex*. Why would I go back to a situation that made me so insecure when I was finally finding peace?
Beyond these major shifts, there are other small wins that signal you're on the path to healing. Maybe you're starting to prioritize your own needs, saying 'no' to things that drain you and 'yes' to activities that light you up. Perhaps you've reconnected with old friends or picked up a forgotten hobby. You might find yourself laughing genuinely, feeling truly happy in moments, without needing their presence to validate your joy. Even setting boundaries, like muting their social media or declining to talk about them, is a huge step forward.
Recognizing these small victories is so important because they often go unnoticed. We’re so focused on the big, dramatic 'aha!' moments that we miss the quiet, consistent progress we’re making. These tiny triumphs are proof that you're growing, evolving, and building a stronger, happier life for yourself. Trust these *signs you’re moving on*. They're not just fleeting feelings; they're milestones on your journey to becoming whole again, and a powerful reminder that looking back isn't an option when you're moving towards something so much better.
Ah I needed this sm. Thank you for this 🥲🫶🏼