Embrace Your Independence

One day it happens—what you once thought was the worst thing that could happen—and you find yourself single. While at first it can be difficult to transition from a relationship to independence, it can be a valuable time to get to know yourself, try something new and figure out a way to find happiness. Don't let yourself succumb to loneliness and desperation; instead, deepen your relationship with yourself so that you can fully embrace your independence.

Taking the time to embrace your freedom gives you the incredible opportunity to know yourself and live life on your terms, without having to worry about your partner. Ultimately, you may find that you're not willing to give up the independent life, or that you become stronger, healthier, and more vibrant in your next relationship.

Five Steps to Embracing Independence

Step 1: Change Up Routines

Shake up your daily routine and see what works best for you. Do you like to wake up earlier and enjoy quiet time in the morning or are you a night owl and can now enjoy all your favorite shows late into the night without having to worry about keeping your partner awake? Trying out new things can be as simple as shaking up your daily routine.

Step 2: Try Something New

Have you ever had a passing curiosity about a sport, art class or other new experience, but didn't have the time to try it? Use your new-found me time to indulge your curiosity and learn something new. Sign up for a class or lace up your running shoes and register for a race—you might just surprise yourself and find a new hobby that you love.

Step 3: Express Gratitude

One important, and often overlooked, aspect that contributes to increases in happiness and wellbeing is gratitude. Actively express your gratitude for all the blessings in your independent life. From being able to spend more time with family and friends to not having to share the covers or watch a show that you don't like, be on the lookout for what fills you with gratitude.

Step 4: Break Out of Your Comfort Zone

Get wild and crazy and break out of your comfort zone to try something new. That could mean that you finally sign up for a rafting trip or that you go out to dinner at the hot new restaurant, alone! Take this time of exploration as a chance to see what happens when you break out of your comfort zone.

Step 5: Don't Wallow

Life is full of changes and transitions that first appear insurmountable, but are opportunities for growth. If you close yourself off from happiness and the world, you are robbing yourself of the chance to change. While you should mourn the end of a relationship, you should also get out in the world and embrace your independence and celebrate you.

With the right outlook, an independent life can be rich, rewarding and filled with satisfying relationships. By nurturing your relationship with yourself, you can build a beautiful life for yourself where you let go of loneliness and desperation to find happiness within yourself.