How to Get Over a Breakup (and Know When You’re Ready to Date Again)

By the Pookeez team · 21 October 2026 · 7 min read

Breakups hurt, whether it was a long relationship or a situationship that never got a label. There’s no fixed timeline for moving on, but there are things that help. Here’s how to get over a breakup, and how to tell when you’re ready to start dating again.

Right after the breakup

1. Let yourself feel it

Sadness, anger, relief, all of it is normal. Trying to skip the hard part usually makes it last longer. Cry, vent to a friend or write it down.

2. Create some distance

Muting or unfollowing your ex on social media isn’t petty. It stops you from checking their stories every hour and gives you space to heal.

3. Lean on your people

Call your best friend. Go home for the weekend. Say yes to plans even when you don’t feel like it. Being around people who love you helps more than you think.

4. Look after the basics

Sleep, eat proper meals, drink water and get outside. Heartbreak takes a toll on your body too.

Moving forward

5. Avoid going back and forth

Late-night “I miss you” texts often reopen the wound. If you need closure, one honest conversation is better than months of mixed signals.

6. Rediscover what you enjoy

Pick up a hobby you dropped, join a class, plan a trip, or try something new in your city. It’s a reminder that your life is full on its own.

7. Reflect, without blaming

Once the pain eases a little, think about what you learned. What do you want in your next relationship? What were the red flags you might have missed?

8. Talk to someone if it’s too much

If you’re struggling to get through daily life for weeks, talking to a counsellor or therapist can really help. It’s a sign of strength, not weakness. If you ever feel unsafe or have thoughts of harming yourself, reach out to someone you trust or a mental health helpline straight away, or call 112 in an emergency.

Signs you’re ready to date again

You can think about your ex without a wave of pain or anger.
You’re not dating to make them jealous or to fill a gap.
You’re curious about meeting new people, not just distracting yourself.
You know what you want, and what you don’t, from your next relationship.
You’d be okay if a date didn’t work out.

There’s no rule about how long to wait. Some people are ready in weeks, others need a year. Go with how you feel, not a deadline.

Getting back into dating

Start slow. A coffee or a walk is plenty. Try our first date ideas in Bangalore.
Update your profile. New photos and a fresh bio help you feel like you. Here are some dating app bio ideas.
Be honest about what you want. If you’re looking for something casual for now, say so.
Don’t compare. Every new person deserves a fresh start.

When you’re ready, Pookeez makes starting over a little easier. Every profile is ID-verified and every feature is free, so you can focus on meeting real people.

Breakup FAQs

How long does it take to get over a breakup?

There’s no fixed timeline. It depends on the relationship and the person. Focus on small steps forward rather than a deadline.

How do I stop thinking about my ex?

Create distance by muting them on social media, spend time with friends, keep busy with things you enjoy, and let the thoughts come and go without acting on them.

How do I know when I’m ready to date again?

You’re likely ready when you can think about your ex calmly, you’re curious about meeting new people, and you’re not dating to fill a gap or make someone jealous.

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