This is one reader's tale of heartbreak and how she got out of it:
I have a pretty high tolerance level and bore it patiently for as long as I could.
Finally, I decided the relationship wasn't going anywhere.
He wasn't going to change. So I decided to call it quits.
I have not regretted my decision.
It hurts!
Walking out was difficult. Getting over him was even more tough.
I cried a lot.
I was left without a sense of purpose and direction in life.
Songs on the radio would remind me of our time together.
Nostalgia was the last thing I needed.
So this is what I did
1. I tore up all our photographs, removed all traces that would remind me of his existence.
2. I surrounded myself with friends most of the time, so I wouldn't feel alone.
That didn't help much, because you need to feel loved and wanted from inside. No external factor can induce that feeling in you.
3. I took up creative hobbies like painting, music, writing, singing, dancing.
I think these work wonders for the mind and soul.
It gave me peace and helped me harmonise my thoughts.
4. I also pampered myself a lot -- in ways as simple as eating chocolate when I felt like it or going to the beauty parlour for a facial.
I did not deny myself anything.
I splurged and did exactly what I felt like doing. Nothing more, nothing less. That really helped.
It is said that when you are in love, you feel every moment of your life is in some way connected with the other person.
That is not true. Everyone has a life of their own and should realise it, irrespective of whether they in love or out of it.
5. Listening to songs about being stronger, being able to survive, makes a huge difference in one's self-esteem, which usually hits an all-time low post break-up.
I hope all the people out there who have faced heartbreak are able to take solace in themselves.
Never forget, that 'special' someone is a part of your life. He/she is not your life!
How did you deal with heartbreak? Share your experience with us.
Illustration: Uttam Ghosh