Stop following them on social media and stop replying to their texts and calls. If you run into them in person, keep your interaction short and sweet. They may want to return to a normal friendship (and perhaps you’ll be on the same page one day) but just let them know you’re not ready for that yet.
Give yourself permission to cry, yell, or just spend some time alone. [2] X Research source Try journaling to explore and understand your feelings. [3] X Research source
If you find yourself thinking, “I’m just not likable enough,” challenge that with something positive like, “Hold up, my friends and coworkers adore me! My personality is not the problem. " If you catch yourself thinking, “I’m just not attractive enough,” counter that with something like, “When I look in the mirror, I like the person I see. " If you find yourself thinking, “No one will ever want to date me,” challenge your inner critic with: “Actually, only one person rejected me. There are 7 billion people on this planet. Of course someone will want to date me!”
You can write this “letter” in your journal if you have one. Go back and reread your letter in the future whenever you’re feeling down. Write about yourself with the same kindness you’d use to describe a friend. [6] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Try asking yourself questions like: What did I learn about myself through this experience? Did I react in unexpected ways to the rejection? If so, why? If I could go back, would I do anything differently?
Keep in mind that rejection creates new opportunities, too. You might meet someone incredible in the near future! That opportunity could have passed you by if you were already dating someone.
Everyone has been rejected at some point, so your loved ones can probably help you put what happened into perspective. [10] X Research source Whether it is sadness, anger or fear, our emotions need to be felt through to completion with someone that will hear, support, and be there with us. When we can do that, healing starts to happen.
Try making a gratitude list to reconnect with the good things in your life. If you’re struggling, ask someone you trust for help. [13] X Research source
If you loved cycling as a kid, air up those old bike wheels and get back out there. Join a local cycling group or look online for the best bike trails in your area. If you used to read sci-fi thrillers by the dozens, check out the newest titles at a nearby bookstore. Pick a few books that look appealing to you and dive in.
For example, if you’ve always wanted to explore your creative side, sign up for an online drawing or painting course. If you’ve always want to get fit, get a gym membership and make it your goal to show up once a week.
If you don’t feel like going out, plan a movie marathon with your besties. Make standing plans to create a new tradition. For example, plan to meet your sibling in the park every Saturday for a picnic and hike.
Try to do at least one positive thing a day to care for yourself. Implement long-term self-care rituals, too! For example, commit to eating a healthy diet. If you’ve always wanted to try yoga, check out beginner tutorials online or sign up for a class.
