Lessons Learned From a Breakup
15 Lessons I Learned Because You Broke My Heart

I'm not a love novice. In fact, I am probably more experienced than I should be for my years. I've been married, been divorced, and been in a number of relationships of all different kinds throughout my dating years as a teenager and as an adult.
However, none have affected my life more and none have been more influential on me than my most recent. While it ended a few months ago, he was the first one that I gave my whole heart to, fully and without question. He gave me a new foundation and he changed my life. But, like all good things, it had to end, and I was left heartbroken.
I already know that my heart will never heal completely — he left a mark that is indelible. And I would still (and probably always) choose him every day if he walked back into my life, no matter where I am.
But, while I am attempting to become as whole as my soul will let me be (and I am trying), I have had some time to reflect on the lessons I learned while dealing with the sadness of the end of a relationship I thought was the end-all-be-all. ("I'm in it to win it, babe," I said with a grin and a giggle one night on the couch. And I was.)
So, without further ado, here are the 15 things I learned because he broke my heart.
You'll Know When You're Really in Love

But Sometimes That Love Isn't Enough

Your Support Group Is Important

Instinct Is Everything

Yes, You're Good Enough

You Have to Make You Happy

Broken Hearts Really Suck

You Are Actually Grieving

You Will Never Be the Same

You Are Stronger Than You Think

Sometimes Talking It Out Doesn't Help

The Next One Will Be Rough

You Will Need to Be Uncomfortable

You Will Have Regrets

There Will Always Be a Place in Your Heart For Them
