It’s Personal, It’s Powerful and It’s Possible
Let’s talk about something that hits close to home for many of us: dealing with our living space after a breakup. It’s a topic that’s often overlooked, but it’s a big deal. How can you reclaim your space after a breakup? How can you make it feel yours again?
The Emotional Rollercoaster of Post-Breakup Spaces
Breakups are tough enough, but when you’re surrounded by reminders of your ex? That’s a whole other level of challenging. Maybe you’ve moved out of a shared space, or perhaps you’re still in the same room where you made all those memories. Either way, it’s normal to feel a little lost, very overwhelmed and confused about what to do with the space.
Reclaiming your space can be a powerful part of your healing journey. And we’re here to help you navigate it.
Why Revamping Your Space After a Breakup Matters
Our Rough Patch counsellor Kimberley Lee really nails it when she says “A breakup is both an ending and a beginning.” It’s the end of your relationship, but it’s also the beginning of a new chapter – one where you get to rediscover yourself.
Resetting your living space isn’t just about interior design (although it can also be a time to get creative!). It’s about creating an environment that represents you, the post-relationship you, whoever that might be. It’s about making a room that feels safe, homey, and allows you to remember that there is still joy around, even if it’s only for a moment.
So, How Do We Reclaim Our Space?
- Acknowledge Your Feelings: it’s okay to feel how you’re feeling. It’s all valid. Your space should be a safe place for all these emotions.
- (When You’re Ready) Out with the Old: it’s okay to put shared items, and sentimental things away for now. Box them up, store them away, or ask a friend to keep them for you. You don’t have to burn it all, and we don’t have to pretend it never happened, but it might be easier for the time being.
- In with the New: it’s common to make concessions and compromises for our partners, but now is the time to really check in with all the things you love and include them in your space. Especially that thing your ex might not have been that into.
- Create New Memories: invite your friends over, rearrange furniture, or just out in your new refreshed space. It’s all about creating new, positive associations.
A Word on Self-Care
Healing takes time. Some days you might feel ready to repaint your entire apartment, and other days you might just want to curl up in bed and not get out. Both are okay. The important thing is to create a space that supports you through all of it.
Breakups are incredibly hard, and often the pain and grief that comes with it reveals itself in the most unexpected moments. Be gentle with yourself.
If You Need Support
If you need support along the way, we’re here for you. We believe that everyone deserves a space – both physical and emotional – where they can feel safe and heal in their own time. Many of our counsellors specialise in life transitions, relationship challenges and grief.
We also offer affordable and accessible online counselling across Australia.
You can learn more about our sliding scale here.
You can connect with a counsellor here.
