Let’s be real: breakups suck. One minute, you’re convinced he’s your soulmate, the next, he’s liking his ex’s Instagram pictures at 2 AM. So now you’re lying in bed, contemplating texting him (don’t do it), binge-eating ice cream (totally fine), and listening to sad Taylor Swift songs on repeat (also fine, but we need to move forward at some point, sis).
If you’re tired of scrolling through his feed like an unpaid detective, it’s time to lean into something deeper, Buddhism. No, you don’t have to shave your head and move to a monastery, but these six Buddhist truths might just help you kick heartbreak to the curb.
1. Everything Is Temporary, Including Your Pain
You thought your relationship would last forever? Cute. But here’s the truth: nothing lasts forever, not your love, not your heartbreak, not even your favorite Netflix series. The Buddhist principle of impermanence (anicca) reminds us that everything changes.
Think about it: there was a time before him, and guess what? You were thriving. And there will be a time after him when you’ll be thriving again. Your heartbreak isn’t a life sentence, it’s a phase, like middle school acne or that bad bangs decision in 2017.
How to Apply It:
- When you feel like texting him, remind yourself: this feeling will pass.
- Journal every time you have a good moment (yes, they still exist!). Watch how they increase over time.
- Meditate on the fact that even the worst pain fades, like your feelings for that guy from high school.
2. Attachment Is the Root of All Suffering (So Stop Stalking Him)
Buddhists believe that clinging to people, things, or the idea of “forever” causes suffering. And girl, let’s be honest, you’re attached. You’re not just mourning the loss of him; you’re mourning the future you thought you’d have. The trips. The wedding hashtags. The matching pajamas.
Here’s the thing: the relationship wasn’t what you made it out to be. If it was, you wouldn’t be crying over some guy who texts “lol” when you pour your heart out.
How to Apply It:
- Delete his number (no, really, do it).
- Unfollow, block, and release yourself from the agony of seeing him “live his best life” (aka pretending).
- Start focusing on what you have, not what you lost. Freedom? More time for yourself? The ability to flirt with that hot bartender guilt-free? Yes, yes, and yes.
3. Suffering Is a Choice (And You Can Choose Peace)
Pain is inevitable, but suffering is optional. Let’s break it down:
- Pain: He dumped you.
- Suffering: You re-read your old texts at 3 AM like a tortured poet.
Buddhists teach that suffering comes from resisting reality. So instead of asking, Why did he do this to me? try asking, What can I learn from this? (Besides the fact that he had questionable music taste.)
How to Apply It:
- Every time you feel sad, ask: Am I choosing suffering? If yes, do something about it (go for a walk, call a friend, dance in your underwear).
- Accept what is: He’s gone. That’s a fact. The sooner you accept it, the sooner you can move on.
4. Your Thoughts Are Not Facts
You know that little voice in your head saying, I’ll never find love again!? She’s a liar.
Buddhism teaches that your thoughts are like passing clouds, just because they exist doesn’t mean they’re true. Right now, your brain is a drama queen, convincing you that your love life is over. But has your life actually ended? No.
How to Apply It:
- When a negative thought pops up, ask: Is this actually true, or am I just in my feelings?
- Challenge your thoughts: “I’ll never find love again” → Really? In a world of 8 billion people? Be so for real.
- Practice mindfulness to detach from your thoughts instead of letting them control you.
5. Karma Is Real, So Let the Universe Handle Him
Ah, karma, the great equalizer. Instead of plotting revenge (tempting, I know), let the universe do its thing. That dude who ghosted you? He’ll date someone just like him. The one who cheated? He’ll get cheated on. It’s cosmic law, baby.
Your energy is too precious to waste on resentment. Instead of wishing him suffering, wish yourself happiness. That’s the real power move.
How to Apply It:
- Instead of seeking revenge, focus on leveling up. Nothing stings more than seeing you glow up and not care.
- Send him love and forgiveness (even if he doesn’t deserve it), not for him, but for your own peace.
- Trust the process. Karma’s got your back.
6. The Only Person Who Can Save You Is YOU
Hate to break it to you, but no amount of texts, closure talks, or crying into your pillow will magically heal you. The only way to move on is to decide to move on.
Buddhism teaches self-reliance, you have everything you need inside of you. And deep down, you know you’re going to be okay. Actually, scratch that, you’re going to be amazing.
How to Apply It:
- Instead of waiting for healing to happen, actively create it. Go to therapy, start a new hobby, take yourself on dates.
- Take responsibility for your happiness. It was never his job, it’s yours.
- Look in the mirror and remind yourself: You are the prize. Period.
Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This
Breakups are hard, but they’re also an opportunity. An opportunity to grow, to learn, and to become the best version of yourself. So take these Buddhist truths, apply them, and remember: he was just a chapter, not your whole damn book.
Now go forth and flourish, queen. Your next love story starts with YOU.
