No matter how a relationship ends, whether it’s amicable or one-sided, breakups suck. Other than trying the classic method for dealing with heartbreak—dipping into a pint of ice cream and having a good cry—there is no clear route to moving on. It may even feel like you’ll be heartbroken forever. 

Listening to music is a great way to both forget and deal with the emotions following a breakup. Here are songs, paired with relevant tips, to help guide you through your breakup:

“I’m Gonna Find Another You” by John Mayer

Get rid of things that may trigger memories of your relationship. While your ex-partner’s hoodie and a ticket stub from your first date might have been special while you were together, you don’t need to be reminded that it’s over every time you get cold or open your junk drawer.

This goes for social media too. If you find yourself obsessing over romantic posts from when you were dating, archive or delete them for a little peace of mind. 

“Don’t Feel Like Crying” by Sigrid

While you probably can’t help yourself from reminiscing about the other person, you can control what you think about. Gather your thoughts by making two lists, one titled “Things I Learned” and another titled “Things I Didn’t Like.” 

In the list of things you learned, write about what your ex did that made you better. This list can be silly or serious or a mixture of both. The lessons can range from improving at sex, getting more body-positive, or learning to be more open. This list acknowledges that although the relationship is over, you didn’t come out on the other side worse for wear. 

In the section for things you didn’t like, write about the deal breakers. Stuff like long distance, bad communication skills, and picky eating will remind you that the relationship wasn’t as perfect as you might be remembering. 

“I’ll Never Fall in Love Again” by Dionne Warwick

After a breakup, you might be left questioning why things ended. If you’re constantly thinking of things you could have done differently, acknowledge that this feeling comes from wanting that person back. It hurts to hear, but finding out what went wrong won’t change what happened. 

Closure can be as simple as reminding yourself that the relationship just wasn’t meant to be. Sometimes, the only thing you can do is realize that you did the best you could. 

“With A Little Help from My Friends” by The Beatles

While you’re in a relationship, it’s easy to forget about your friendships. Not only will spending more time with old friends help distract you, but it can also be a great reminder of how your ex wasn’t the only person who knows how great you are. 

If you find yourself wishing you had someone new in your life, try finding people with similar interests. A new relationship doesn’t have to be romantic—new friends might be just what you need to get out of your funk.

“I’ll Still Have Me” by CYN

Being single allows you to focus on the most important person in your life: yourself. 

While you might want to crawl into bed and cry, try going to a park and crying there! Just kidding. 

Breakups are the perfect time to revamp yourself. Discover new interests by taking yourself out to a movie, studying in a coffee shop, or trying a new activity. 

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Getting over a breakup is no easy task, but no matter how long it takes, it will happen. We’ve all heard it a million times, but there are plenty of fish in the sea.

Attached is a curated playlist of some of my personal favourite breakup songs, as well as a few suggestions from friends.