Oh, it’s a heartbreak as old as time. You’re crushing on this cutie from your class. The two of you begin talking. You even constantly daydream about your first date together. Then one day, you find out they are actually dating someone else. Or they tell you they’re not interested in you “like that.” It’s embarrassing, devastating…and such a universal experience. If you’re currently going through this phenomenon, aka the infamous ~unrequited crush~, this is how you’ll handle one of the most difficult heartbreaks.
Know that it’s not you
After the initial sting of finding out they don’t like you back, you might start thinking, “Well, there must be something wrong with me?” Or, maybe, you start comparing yourself to the person your crush is dating, thinking you are lacking something. Saying this loud: There is nothing wrong with you (seriously, you are a gem, don’t forget that.) Your crush’s feelings are on them, not on you. It’s very normal to have these negative thoughts but, pretty please, remember your worth is not dependent on someone else’s feelings. You already—and always will be—an incredible human being.
Feel your feelings
Bottling up your emotions is never a healthy option. If you need to cry, sob into that pillow. If you feel embarrassed or even a little angry, that’s absolutely normal, too. It’s also normal to still be pining for your crush for a bit. Unfortunately, those feelings don’t disappear right away. But know this—you will move on…eventually. So blast Taylor Swift’s “Teardrops On My Guitar” and allow yourself to feel what you’re feeling.
Talk it out
Talking to someone can be a great outlet to process your emotions. Ask your bestie if they have time to talk. Make a girls’ night-in out of it to distract yourself for a bit, too. If you are really struggling, don’t be afraid to reach out for professional support from a counselor or therapist. Don’t feel like talking to anyone? Journaling let’s you let it all out…in private.
Continue living your life
I know, you’re probably thinking “duh!” but, in the moment, heartbreak feels like it’s going to last forever (spoiler alert, it’s not). Even if you are still feeling bummed out, try to do activities you always loved doing. Or take this as an opportunity to try something new (knitting a sweater makes everything better). Then one day, your crush will be a distant memory. And, who knows? Maybe you’ll (very soon) meet someone new who *will* be interested in going on your dream first date.
Need more heartbreak advice? Check out these posts:
💔 So Your Ex Just Got Into A Relationship. What’s Next?
💔 How To Start Healing From Your Very First Breakup
💔 The Teen Girl’s Guide To Navigating The Friend Zone
Slider & top image: @highschoolmusicalseries
