Breakups can feel like the worst thing in the world, but somehow, people always find a way to get through them.
While certain post-breakup moves seem cliché, there’s a reason they’re so popular — they actually help. If you’ve ever rolled your eyes at these classic breakup rituals, you might want to reconsider. Doing these things after ending a relationship might make someone feel like they’re living out their own personal rom-com (without the happy ending), but these things actually help them heal their heartbreak and bounce back better than ever.
1. Cutting or dyeing their hair
There’s something about a breakup that makes people want to grab a pair of scissors or book an urgent hair appointment. Whether it’s a dramatic chop, a new fringe, or a bold colour, changing your hair after a breakup is a classic move. It’s like a physical reset button — one that signals to yourself (and everyone else) that you’re entering a new chapter. While it might seem impulsive, changing your hair actually does something psychological. It gives you a sense of control at a time when everything feels messy. Even if the new look doesn’t last forever, the act of switching things up helps you detach from the past and embrace the idea of something fresh.
2. Deleting old messages and photos
At first, scrolling through old messages might feel comforting, but sooner or later, it turns into self-torture. That’s when the mass delete happens. Photos, texts, voicemails — all gone. It might feel dramatic, but getting rid of those reminders can be a huge relief. Erasing digital traces of your ex doesn’t mean you’re pretending they never existed. It just helps create space for you to heal without constant reminders popping up. Plus, it stops you from falling into the trap of re-reading messages at 2 AM and over-analysing every conversation you ever had.
3. Going through a fitness phase
Suddenly signing up for a gym membership, taking up running, or becoming obsessed with yoga is a classic post-breakup move. People call it a “revenge body” phase, but it’s not always about looking better, it’s about feeling better. Exercise releases endorphins, which actually improve mood and reduce stress. Working out also gives you something to focus on when your mind won’t stop spiralling. Instead of sitting around replaying every argument, you’re using that energy in a productive way. Whether it’s lifting weights, boxing, or going on long walks, movement is one of the best ways to process emotions.
4. Going on a social media cleanse
After a breakup, scrolling through social media can feel like emotional self-sabotage. Seeing your ex’s posts or even just watching other happy couples can make things feel worse. That’s why so many people log off for a while, mute certain accounts, or even delete social media altogether. Taking a break from the digital world gives you space to focus on yourself rather than what everyone else is doing. It also stops you from accidentally stalking your ex’s new life and overthinking every post they share. Out of sight, out of mind, and honestly, out of stress.
5. Booking a spontaneous trip
Few things scream “fresh start” like booking a random holiday or getaway. Whether it’s a solo trip, a weekend city break, or a last-minute beach holiday, the idea of escaping after a breakup is incredibly tempting. And honestly? It works. Travelling shakes up your routine, gives you new experiences, and reminds you that there’s more to life than your last relationship. Being in a new environment helps break old patterns, forcing you to focus on the present instead of dwelling on the past. Even a short trip can make a huge difference in how you feel.
6. Throwing themselves into work or hobbies
Source: Unsplash Breakups leave behind a lot of empty time, especially if you spent most of your days with your ex. Instead of sitting in the silence, many people channel their energy into work, hobbies, or creative projects. Whether it’s learning a new skill, starting a side hustle, or simply taking on extra shifts, keeping busy can be a lifesaver. Focusing on something productive gives you a sense of purpose when everything feels a bit meaningless. It also helps you build a new identity outside of the relationship. Plus, there’s nothing like achieving something new to remind yourself that you’re capable of thriving on your own.
7. Saying yes to every invite
Source: Unsplash Post-breakup, people often go into ‘social butterfly’ mode, saying yes to every night out, dinner, and random event. Even the things they normally wouldn’t enjoy suddenly sound appealing. It’s a mix of distraction and a need to prove they’re still fun and independent. While it might seem like avoidance, saying yes to new experiences is actually a great way to rebuild confidence. It reminds you that there’s a world beyond your ex and that you’re still capable of having a good time. Plus, surrounding yourself with friends (even if you don’t feel like it at first) can make the healing process a little less lonely.
8. Binge-watching self-help content
Source: Unsplash At some point in the breakup process, people inevitably end up deep in self-help mode. Whether it’s watching TED Talks about heartbreak, reading books on personal growth, or following motivational Instagram pages, there’s a craving for wisdom and perspective. While it’s easy to roll your eyes at cheesy advice, some of it actually helps. Learning about attachment styles, self-worth, or emotional resilience can make a huge difference in how you process the breakup. Plus, sometimes you just need a reminder that you’re not the only person who’s ever felt this way.
9. Writing long journal entries
Source: Unsplash Even people who have never journaled in their lives suddenly feel the need to pour their hearts out on paper after a breakup. There’s something cathartic about getting all those feelings out of your head and onto a page where they can’t spiral endlessly. Writing things down helps organise thoughts and emotions, making them feel less overwhelming. It also gives you something to look back on later, when you realise how much progress you’ve made. Plus, it’s a lot cheaper than therapy (although both are great).
10. Making a drastic wardrobe change
Post-breakup reinventions aren’t just about hair; clothes get an overhaul too. Whether it’s clearing out everything that reminds them of their ex or suddenly dressing in a way they never did before, a wardrobe refresh is a common way to mark a new chapter. It’s about rediscovering personal style without any outside influence. Wearing something new makes you feel different, which can be exactly what’s needed when trying to move on. Plus, shopping is a great distraction (even if your bank account disagrees).
11. Blocking their ex (and then unblocking them… and then blocking them again)
Blocking an ex is often step one in the breakup process. No contact means no temptation, right? But then curiosity kicks in, and suddenly, they’re unblocked. Maybe just a quick check? Then regret sets in, and boom — they’re blocked again. While it might seem ridiculous, this cycle is actually part of the process. Eventually, the need to check fades, and the block sticks for good. Until then, a little back-and-forth is completely normal; breakups aren’t linear, after all.
12. Getting into astrology or tarot readings
Even people who never cared about star signs suddenly want to know if their breakup was written in the stars. Birth charts, tarot readings, and Mercury retrograde all become suspiciously relevant after heartbreak. Whether it’s for comfort or just something to focus on, astrology gives people a sense of meaning when everything feels chaotic. Plus, let’s be honest — sometimes it’s fun to blame the stars instead of your own bad choices.
13. Romanticising their single life
After the initial heartbreak fades, many people go full main character mode. They start embracing solo dates, making aesthetic Pinterest boards about independence, and convincing themselves that this is the best thing that’s ever happened to them. And honestly? They’re not wrong. Romanticising single life helps shift focus away from what’s been lost and towards all the exciting possibilities ahead. It’s a cliché, but one that genuinely works.
14. Realising they’re actually fine
One day, without even noticing, the weight of the breakup lifts. They wake up and realise they didn’t think about their ex. They hear an old song and don’t feel sad. The healing happens slowly, then all at once — and suddenly, they’re okay.
