Kind Words For When Moving On Feels Impossible

Updated October 16th, 2025 by BetterHelp Editorial Team

Heartbreak can shake your whole world.

Breakups, distance, or betrayal through cheating can leave you feeling lost, angry, or deeply hurt. These moments may raise questions about trust, self-worth, and love itself. Healing takes time, and it can be normal to sense that you’re carrying more than you can handle. This space is here to remind you that your pain is valid, and that support, clarity, and compassion are possible as you move forward.

We explore themes like healing after infidelity, strengthening your relationship with yourself, ending a relationship while still in love, and learning to move on and let go.

Healing takes time, and you don’t have to do it by yourself

Support is out there, therapy is one place to start.

Moments when love leaves you hurting 

  • When you’ve ended a relationship but still feel deeply in love
  • When betrayal through cheating leaves you questioning your worth
  • When you’re replaying the breakup in your mind and blaming yourself
  • When you’re struggling to let go of shared memories and routines because of the pressure to “move on” faster than you’re ready
  • When healing seems too slow and you wonder if you’ll ever feel whole again
  • When you’re trying to rebuild trust but don’t know where to start
  • When heartbreak makes it hard to believe in love again
Quotes ▾
Read words from others who have felt the same way you’re feeling right now. They’re here to remind you that you’re not alone.
  • “To love oneself is the beginning of a life-long romance.” - Oscar Wilde
  • “When we are in love, we are convinced nobody else will do. But as time goes, others do, and often do, much much better.” – Jamie Weise
  • “Your value doesn’t decrease based on someone’s inability to see your worth.” - Zig Ziglar
  • “Breakups hurt, but losing someone who doesn’t respect and appreciates you is a gain, not a loss.”- Unknown
  • “Don’t cry when the sun is gone, because the tears won’t let you see the stars.” – Violeta Parra 
  • “Sometimes good things fall apart so better things can fall together.” – Marilyn Monroe
  • “It’s hard to turn the page when you know someone won’t be in the next chapter, but the story must go on.” – Thomas Wilder
  • “New beginnings are often disguised as painful endings.” – Lao Tzu

Did you know?

Heartbreak and betrayal can affect your mind and body in the same way trauma does. Feelings of anxiety, depression, and even shock can be common after cheating or a painful breakup. These reactions don’t mean you’re weak. Instead, they may indicate that you’ve been deeply hurt, and healing takes time. Journaling can help you release what hurts, remind you of your strength, and create space for healing. Here are some prompts and affirmations to help you navigate these feelings.

Journal Prompts ▾
Here to help you reflect on your feelings and put them into words. Writing can help you process your emotions and recognize patterns.
  • List three ways you have shown resilience since experiencing betrayal.
  • If you could tell the person who broke your heart one thing without fear, what would it be? Write out what you want to say to them without sending it.
  • What emotions come up when you think about trust? Write about how you can validate and honor those feelings without judgement.
  • What parts of your identity do you want to reclaim outside of your relationship? What hobbies can you get back into?
  • How can you care for yourself in the moments when you feel most alone?
  • What new beginnings are you ready to welcome into your life?
  • What small steps can you take toward healing?
Affirmations ▾
Repeat these short, supportive phrases to ground yourself and help shift your thoughts.
  • I am worthy of a relationship built on trust, love, and respect.
  • I am not defined by someone else’s choices.
  • This experience does not diminish my value or my ability to love.
  • I give myself permission to move through this experience at my own pace.
  • I trust myself to know what is best for me moving forward.
  • I forgive myself for what I didn’t know then.
  • I can love what was while welcoming what’s next.

Moving forward

Nearly everyone experiences heartbreak at some point in life, whether it’s due to the end of a romantic relationship, the loss of a loved one, or another challenging situation. Although it can be a universal experience, heartbreak tends to be deeply painful and can greatly affect daily life. While journaling may not be a quick fix for a broken heart, it can help you work through your thoughts and emotions in a healthy way. If it seems impossible to move forward, know that professional support is available. You can get started by connecting with a qualified therapist.

Takeaway

  • Your feelings are valid—heartbreak can feel like grief, and healing takes time.
  • You’re not weak—strong emotions reflect deep hurt, not a flaw.
  • Healing isn’t linear—ups and downs are normal.
  • Small self-care helps—rest, journaling, movement build resilience.
  • You’re not alone—many have walked this path; support helps.

Explore additional information on these feelings and similar experiences in the below articles:

For additional help and support with your concerns
Speak with a licensed therapist
The information on this page is not intended to be a substitution for diagnosis, treatment, or informed professional advice. You should not take any action or avoid taking any action without consulting with a qualified mental health professional. For more information, please read our terms of use.
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