How to Forget the Man Who Cheated on Your Love

Feelings of sadness, anger, and exhaustion after a breakup are normal. You don’t have to try to act strong or pretend you’re fine when you’re not. Give yourself some time (a week, a month, or whatever you think is enough) to feel what you need to feel. When the deadline is up, promise yourself to start focusing on the future. ^[2]

• Find a private and safe place where you can cry, scream, or listen to sad music. Your feelings are natural and you are entitled to have them. ^[3]
• If you still have feelings for your ex, that’s okay too. That man was once an important part of your life, even though he didn’t reciprocate your feelings.
• Don’t try to over-analyze everything. After all, your ex has a problem, and that’s why he cheated on you. You did not cause this and there is nothing you can do to change it.

He’s a manipulator, and it’s not your fault. You come into this love with an open heart and soul that is true to your nature. Isn’t that good? You have nothing to be ashamed of and there is no need to change yourself. ^[4]

• You may feel like you can never trust again, but tell yourself that you won’t always feel that way. New hopes and dreams will replace the sadness of the past. ^[5]

You will have a hard time getting over it if you keep living with things that remind you of your ex. People say “far from face and heart” for a reason! Small gifts, ticket stubs, old people’s favorite coats – all had to be thrown away. Usually you don’t need to return it to your ex. Put it all in a box or throw it in the trash. ^[6]

• If you don’t have the courage to throw everything away, ask a friend to keep it for a while.

Think of this as a cleansing ritual to close the past. List the worst things about your ex. Write down every disappointing thing he does. Make fun of his weird hair or fashion sense. Pour all that toxic energy into the words on the paper and hold nothing back! No one will read this letter, so give yourself permission to let it all out! ^[7]

• You can burn the letter when you’re done. Sometimes symbolic actions can help close things you want to forget. ^[8]

Go to the gym or sign up for a martial arts class. If you’re angry about being taken advantage of, that’s okay too! It is important that you find healthy ways to release that negative energy. Exercise will help you channel your emotions into positive things, feeling more energized and confident. In addition, if you have been having trouble sleeping for a long time, these exercises will make you tired and have a good night’s sleep. ^[9] Try options like:

• Freestyle, kickboxing or boxing classes ^[10]
• Indoor cycling or strength training exercises
• Jogging or swimming

New activities can help you focus on the present instead of the past. It may be difficult at first, but try to get out of your comfort zone. Try finding some new hobbies, doing things you’ve always wanted to do, or signing up for an online class. Anything that forces your mind to focus on the present instead of dwelling on the past has a healing and invigorating effect on you. ^[11]

• For example, you could learn to play an instrument, join a club or sports team, or try your hand at scuba diving.

They will keep you busy and recharge you. If you need to vent to your emotions, make sure you choose trusted friends and loved ones who really listen. But try not to talk about your ex all the time! Tell him and forget about him. Focus on new pleasures and plan exciting activities ahead. ^[12]

• When you feel stronger, you can even step out and make new friends. ^[13]