Let’s be real—getting over a crush can be tough. Whether it’s someone you see every day, an ex, or even someone you never actually dated, the emotions can be just as intense.
I’ve been there, and I know that moving on isn’t always as simple as people make it seem.
But here’s the good news: it is possible.
You won’t feel like this forever. And with a few key strategies, you can move forward, heal, and feel like yourself again.
So, let’s dive into how to actually get over a crush in 6 ways that work.
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Step 1: Acknowledge and Validate Your Feelings
You can’t move on from feelings you refuse to acknowledge.
If you’ve been telling yourself, “This shouldn’t hurt” or “I need to just get over it,” take a step back.
Your emotions are valid, no matter how irrational they might seem.
Admit how you feel and recognize the impact it’s having on you. You can’t move on from feelings you refuse to acknowledge. Be honest with yourself about your love or attraction, no matter how irrational or inconvenient it might seem.
Give yourself permission to feel everything. Whether it’s sadness, frustration, longing, or even relief, every emotion is valid. Suppressing them only prolongs the healing process.
Recognize the toll this has taken on you. Whether it was an unspoken crush, a situationship, or an actual relationship, your feelings were real. It’s okay to grieve the version of the future you had envisioned with this person.
Practice self-compassion. Imagine if a close friend was going through this—how would you comfort them? Now, extend that same kindness to yourself. Healing doesn’t follow a strict timeline, so don’t pressure yourself to appear “over it” before you’re ready.
Taking the time to process your emotions is the first step to truly letting go.
Step 2: Create Distance (Even If It Feels Impossible)
One of the hardest (but most necessary) things to do is create space between you and your crush. This means:
Limit or eliminate contact. If you work together or see each other in school, try to minimize interactions as much as possible.
Stop talking about them. The more you bring them up, the more they stay in your head. Ask your friends to help you change the subject when necessary.
Unfollow, mute, or block them on social media. This might feel extreme, but trust me—seeing their posts will only set you back.
Remove reminders. Pictures, gifts, messages—anything that makes you think about them should be put away.
Step 3: Shift the Focus Back to Yourself
Now that you’ve cleared some space, it’s time to fill it with you.
Reconnect with hobbies. What did you love doing before this crush took over your brain? Get back into it.
Prioritize self-care. Eat well, get enough sleep, and exercise. When you take care of yourself physically, you’ll feel better emotionally too.
Spend time with loved ones. Surround yourself with people who make you laugh and remind you of your worth.
Try something new. Whether it’s a new hobby, a short trip, or a new workout class, fresh experiences help shift your mindset.
Step 4: Manage Your Thoughts and Emotions
Let’s be honest—your mind is probably replaying every interaction you’ve had with this person. Here’s how to take control of those thoughts:
Stop idealizing them. No one is perfect. Start reminding yourself of their flaws and why they weren’t right for you.
Reframe the situation. Instead of seeing this as a loss, think of it as a learning experience.
Change how you label them. Instead of calling them “my crush,” think of them as “just a coworker” or “a friend I used to like.”
Avoid romanticizing the past. Be honest with yourself—was this really as perfect as your brain is making it out to be?
Practice positive affirmations. Remind yourself daily: “I deserve love that is mutual and fulfilling.”
Step 5: Seek Support When Needed
You don’t have to go through this alone.
Talk to a trusted friend or family member. They can offer perspective and support.
Consider therapy. If you’re really struggling, a therapist can help you work through your emotions and develop coping strategies.
Join a support group or online community. Sometimes, just knowing you’re not alone in your feelings can be comforting.
Step 6: Give It Time (And Be Patient With Yourself)
Moving on isn’t a straight line. Some days will feel great, and others might be tough. That’s normal.
Remind yourself that healing takes time. You don’t need to rush the process.
Don’t be discouraged by setbacks. If you have a bad day, it doesn’t mean you’re back at square one.
Remember that you deserve better. You deserve love that is reciprocated and fulfilling.
Reflect and grow. Take what you’ve learned from this experience and use it to move forward in a healthier way.
Special Situations
If You Work or Study With Them…
- Keep interactions strictly professional.
- Try to create physical and emotional distance where possible.
- Focus on excelling in your work or studies.
If You Never Dated Them…
- Accept that sometimes, things don’t work out, and that’s okay.
- Understand that you were in love with the idea of them more than the reality.
If Your Ex Wants to Be Friends…
- It’s okay to say no if you’re not ready.
- Set clear boundaries and put your own healing first.
- Give yourself time before deciding if friendship is possible.
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Moving Forward With Strength and Hope
At the end of the day, getting over a crush is a journey—not a race.
And the best part?
Once you move on, you’ll see how much stronger, wiser, and more self-assured you’ve become.
So take it one step at a time, be kind to yourself, and trust that something better is ahead.
You’ve got this. 💙
