We've all been there; breakups are an essential part of life. Being in a relationship is nice, but once it's over, we are surrounded by a feeling of loneliness. This does not have to happen any longer! Here are some realizations you need to have in order to help you set the Ben & Jerry’s aside, and come to peace with your new relationship status.

1. You do not need them. The main reason you feel pain after a breakup is because you have been with them for so long, you've formed an attachment and some sort of dependency on them. Make yourself happy. Someone should not define your happiness, they should simply add to it. If you are happy without them, getting past this relationship will be a breeze. 

2. Realize why you broke up. If you are having trouble getting over someone, then you probably only remember the good and happy parts of the relationship. Analyze all the things about the relationship that didn't make you happy, and this will help you understand why you are better off without them. Being hung up on someone is only holding you back from bigger and better things. 

3. Spend time with your friends. During a relationship, we are forced to cut down on our friend time to hang out with our new boy. Now that it's over, spend all the time you can with your friends because they are the ones who will be the most helpful in this time of recovery. 

4. Work out. This is the best advice because it will naturally make you happy, PLUS give you some extra benefits. Not only do you get to release some endorphins, but also it (a.) gives you time to think about why you are better off single, (b.) allows you to look at other good-looking people while you move on, (c.) gives you an opportunity to approach and meet those good-looking people, and (d.) makes you look and feel better. This advice ended with D, coincidence? I think not. 

5. Meet new people. Don’t shut yourself off from the world. It's important you do not let a breakup take over your life! Go out, meet some new people, and forget about your ex. There is a reason you are not with them any more so go find someone who is worthy of you instead of moping about your breakup.

There are better things ahead than any we leave behind. Leave the ice cream in the freezer and take yourself out. Focus on having fun, spending time with friends, and realize that being in a relationship does not define you. Surprisingly enough, you can be happy without a bae by your side.