NIFTY WAYS TO LOVE YOUR LEAVER
(or how to get over getting dumped)

Getting dumped stinks but don't make it worse than it has to be. Wallowing in self-pity and getting bitter may satisfy your newfound primitive neediness but ultimately it just makes you a drag to be around. Here are 5 simple ways to temporarily accept your pitiful state and MOVE ON!:

•  Set a pity-party time limit.

Getting dumped and feeling lousy go hand-in-hand but who says you can't be the master of your own fate? Feel like crap using this simple formula: count up the number of months the two of you were consecutively together. Take 10% of the total. This is the amount of time you're allowed to bitch and moan, dress like a slob, eat inappropriately and sob your guts out. Don't skimp because once you're done it's time to start singing the Annie song.

•  Be resolute.

Like an addict kicking a bad habit there is no turning back. Once you've had the requisite "Dear Jane" talk, email or letter consider the relationship closed, done, finis. Do NOT contact your ex in any way, shape or form as that behavior only serves to set the healing clock back to zero EVERY TIME.

•  Store all memorabilia in the circular file.

Now is NOT the time to put together a couple's scrapbook. Now IS the time to hide all memory lane items (and I do mean all) in a box in your friend's basement. Out of sight while you're out of your mind.

•  Give yourself a goodie.or three.

Get a facial. Go to the museum. Make brownies. Schedule quiet time. Buy that dress. Don't wait around for someone to give you what you need. Give it to yourself.

•  Find joy.

I'm not talking about skipping around and smiling like a circus idiot. I mean exploring interests and engaging the world around you. This type of behavior exponentially increases your chances of finding joy with another. Why? Because contented people look and smell delicious-like freshly baked bread, you're naturally drawn to them.