Greetings!
As a mindfulness coach, I have come to understand that learning is the most valuable asset one can possess.
From your description, it is evident that you are experiencing a range of intense emotions, including anxiety, confusion, depression, pain, and a sense of helplessness.
The specifics of the difficulties experienced following the dissolution of the relationship are beyond the scope of this discussion. However, three key recommendations can be offered for consideration.
Firstly, it is recommended that an effort be made to gain a deeper understanding of one's own self and to provide oneself with a degree of solace.
Such an approach will result in a slight alleviation of distress, which will facilitate the formulation of a plan of action.
You stated that six months ago, you were in a satisfactory romantic relationship. However, at that time, you were experiencing significant pressure to pursue graduate school. Despite your positive feelings towards your partner, you ultimately terminated the relationship. The other individual also experienced distress and initiated a new relationship within a month. This led to feelings of sadness and a sense of abandonment, which prompted you to question your decision. This internal conflict and emotional distress may have been intensified by the fact that you had not yet fully moved on from the relationship.
It is understandable that you would experience these feelings, given that the dissolution of a positive relationship can lead to feelings of regret. Additionally, the ongoing pressure from your academic pursuits may contribute to feelings of distress and anxiety. It is crucial to recognize that these emotions are normal and to find ways to comfort and reassure yourself.
It may be helpful to view these negative emotions as a result of your internal conflict and to recognize that you are not alone in experiencing them. This understanding can provide you with the mental energy to engage in constructive thinking and to explore other sources of support.
Furthermore, allowing oneself to understand and accept one's own self is a necessary step in effecting change in the current situation. This may seem paradoxical, but it is, in fact, an accurate representation of the process of change, which is contingent upon the absence of resistance.
Secondly, it is recommended that you undertake a rational assessment of your own state of mind.
Rational thinking can assist in developing a more nuanced understanding of oneself and of reality.
In order to rationalize, one must undertake the following three steps:
First, it is important to recognize that the dissolution of the relationship is a reality that must be accepted, even if it is done so passively.
In your account, you indicated that the other individual has initiated a new relationship and that the prospect of a future together is unlikely. This necessitates an acceptance of the circumstances and a reframing of the past, which will prevent you from succumbing to self-doubt.
Furthermore, it provides insight into the understanding that there is no opportunity for a do-over in life. Rather than dwelling on past decisions, it is more beneficial to focus on the present and future, as these are within one's control.
Secondly, it is important to recognise that human nature is characterised by a tendency to seek benefits and avoid harm. When one makes the decision to end a relationship, it is typically the result of careful consideration.
In other words, it is not always possible to have the best of both worlds. However, when making a decision, the human brain will typically choose the option that is more beneficial to oneself. In this case, you also carefully considered your studies and love at that time, and you cared more about your studies, so your choice was not necessarily wrong. After considering this, you may feel less regret.
Thirdly, it is important to recognise that the status quo can be altered, given the capacity for change inherent in the individual.
Once subjective initiative is exerted, a corresponding change in state will occur.
A rational perspective may help to assuage some of the negative emotions experienced.
I reiterate my previous recommendation that you focus on your own well-being and consider how you might improve your situation.
A rational assessment of the situation may also facilitate the identification of an appropriate course of action. At this juncture, it is advisable to focus on self-care and to strive for the best possible outcome.
For instance, when experiencing feelings of regret or remorse, it can be beneficial to remind oneself that at the time, the decision was made with the best interests of one's studies in mind. It is important to recognize that human energy is limited and that it is not feasible to excel in all areas simultaneously. Once this perspective is embraced, it can lead to a sense of increased peace and tranquility.
Additionally, it is beneficial to remind oneself that the dissolution of the relationship is a reality and that it is possible to retain positive memories while moving forward with one's life, as the past cannot be altered. Repetition of this affirmation can facilitate a shift in perspective and a subsequent improvement in emotional state.
Additionally, one can inquire as to the most pressing matter at hand and then endeavor to address it to the best of one's abilities. This process of reflection allows for the prioritization of crucial tasks and the avoidance of mental fatigue. It is evident that your primary concern at this juncture is your academic pursuits. Consequently, it would be prudent to consider strategies for ensuring success in your postgraduate studies and then to implement them.
Additionally, one may engage in empty chair therapy or diary therapy when experiencing negative emotions to facilitate emotional expression. Once negative emotions emerge, there may be an opportunity for emotional healing, potentially leading to an improvement in mood. In essence, it is important to recognize that one can take action to enhance the current situation.
Once action is initiated, the various negative emotions will gradually dissipate, as action is often the most effective means of overcoming such emotions.
It is my hope that this response will prove beneficial to you. Should you wish to engage in further communication, you are invited to click on the "Find a Coach" link at the foot of this page, which will enable you to contact me directly.
Comments
I can totally relate to feeling lost after a breakup. It's hard when you realize what you had was special, and now it's gone. Wishing I could turn back time.
It sounds like you were under a lot of pressure during that period. Sometimes we make decisions based on how we feel at that moment, but life has its way of teaching us lessons through these experiences.
Reflecting on past relationships is natural, especially when they meant so much to us. But seeing the person move on can be tough; it makes us question our choices and wonder about what could have been.
You put a lot into that relationship even if it didn't last. Maybe this experience will help you grow and understand yourself better. It's important to take care of your own wellbeing as you prepare for your future.
It's heartbreaking to feel like you've lost something precious. But remember, everyone's journey is different, and sometimes paths diverge for reasons we don't immediately understand. Focus on your growth and healing.