In this breakup recovery episode of the Bitter to Better podcast, I dive into managing post-breakup impulses—the sudden urges to text your ex, check their socials, vent online, or act out of anger or grief. I walk through practical ways to reduce triggers you can control (like strict no-contact or limited, business-only communication when kids or legal ties are involved) and offer specific tools for when the waves hit: take a walk with music or a podcast, call a trusted friend, schedule therapy, distract yourself with organizing or creative work, and record or write what you want to say—but don’t send it. I also encourage making a personal “impulse plan” you can access anywhere, and using past painful outcomes as motivation to pause. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s fewer impulsive moments and more choices that support your healing, day by day.

I close with a reminder that your feelings are valid; it’s the actions we take that matter for our long-term peace. Create distance from avoidable triggers, keep communication tight and purposeful if you must co-parent or share assets, and build your menu of healthy alternatives for those intense moments. We’re in this together—step by step toward feeling better and moving forward.