LIFESTYLE

How To Stop Thinking About Someone

Published

10 months ago

February 11, 2024

How To Stop Thinking About Someone | Fab.ng

Ever lose focus because someone has taken over your thoughts? Whether it’s a dreamy crush or a troubling ex, figuring out how to stop thinking about someone can feel impossible.

It could be joyful daydreams fueled by a romantic interest, prompting you to blast love songs and ditch responsibilities. Or maybe it’s the replay of a negative memory involving a former friend or family member, leading to nostalgic heartbreak tunes. But why can’t we seem to break free from these mental loops?

If you’re finding yourself stuck in a one-person thought spiral, read on for insights and actionable steps to help you get unstuck and back to focusing on what truly matters.

Here, we have shed light on the reasons behind this fixation and offered practical strategies to help you regain control.

1. Your brain chemically reacts to you thinking about someone

It’s not just willpower that keeps you thinking about someone obsessively. Your brain chemistry is partly to blame. A brain chemical called dopamine is the culprit. Dopamine makes you feel pleasure and crave things you desire.

So, every time you think about that person, you get a tiny dopamine reward, making you want to think about them even more. This even happens to people who aren’t in your life anymore.

Losing someone we love triggers the same brain reactions as drugs. Whether it’s a positive or negative fixation, your brain interprets it as a reward or a deprivation, fueling the obsession.

2. You feel regret when you think of how things ended

Stuck replaying a past relationship in your head? The reason might be unresolved feelings. Maybe you regret a breakup or have lingering tension with a friend. Don’t worry, there’s a way to break free.

Accepting you can’t change the past is key. Replaying events to fix them keeps you stuck. Move forward by letting go of regret and focusing on the present. Also, remember that forgiveness and acceptance, even for yourself, can be powerful tools for mental clarity.

3. Humans are social by nature

Our brains are wired for connection, so it’s natural to hold onto memories of past relationships, even if they’ve ended. However, constantly thinking about someone can get in the way of moving on.

Get clear on your future goals: who do you want to be and what do you want from life? When you have a direction, it’s easier to let go of the past and stop dwelling on old connections.

You must know that you’re not alone. Many people struggle with this, but there are strategies you can learn to regain control of your thoughts and focus on what matters most. Follow me as I outline them for you below:

How to stop thinking about someone in 8 easy steps

1. Hit the unfollow button

Craving someone in your head? Hit unfollow! Scrolling through their social media keeps that “feel-good” brain chemical dopamine flowing, making it harder to move on. Seeing them online triggers this cycle, like a mental loop that sets you back.

Be friends with the unfollow button, or even consider a temporary social media break if they pop up often in your feeds. Remember, the goal is to feel better, and sometimes that means taking control of what you see online.

2. Do something that makes you happy

Stop feeding the obsession. Seeing your “fixation” online keeps dopamine levels high, making it harder to move on. Break the cycle with healthy distractions. Laugh with friends, hit the gym, or volunteer with animals—anything to boost your mood and keep your mind present.

Staying mentally active helps too. A busy mind means less space for intrusive thoughts. So go do something fun and engaging, and watch those unwanted thoughts fade away.

3. Play a mindfulness game

Daydreaming about someone, especially a crush, can easily spiral into unproductive thoughts. But fear not! The key is catching yourself when your mind wanders and redirecting it before it goes too far. Like, if you keep thinking about “cute James,” even though he wasn’t so cute when he cheated, acknowledge the thought and gently shift your focus to the present. Use your senses.

What do you see, hear, smell, touch, or taste right now? Grounding yourself in the present breaks the “James loop.” Then, replace those unwanted thoughts with something positive. Plan your weekend, call a friend—anything to shift your mood. Remember, you control your thoughts, not the other way around.

4. Write it out

Can’t stop thinking about someone? Feeling stuck? Write it down! Journaling your thoughts and feelings can clear your head and help you understand yourself better. It can also help you figure out what you really want from relationships.

Here are some prompts to get you started:

What qualities do I admire in this person?
What emotions do I feel when I think about them?
What does this situation say about what I need in a relationship?
How can I move forward healthily?

Writing down your thoughts and reflections can be a powerful tool for self-discovery and growth. Give it a try and see what insights you uncover.

Get the latest and greatest updates right away! Join our exclusive WhatsApp channel and never miss out on exciting news again.

5. Shift your perspective

Try radical acceptance. It’s about accepting things ended the way they did, even if it wasn’t ideal. Accepting what happened opens doors to learning and growth. It’s not about dwelling on “what went wrong,” which just keeps you stuck. Instead, use this as a chance to learn from your experience and move forward positively. Remember, acceptance doesn’t mean condoning what happened; it means letting go and focusing on your future.

6. Meet new people

Don’t blame yourself for a relationship that didn’t work out. Feeling good about yourself is key, and meeting new people can help boost your confidence and shift your focus. Plus, connecting with others keeps you present, preventing overthinking about the past. So be kind to yourself, explore new connections, and focus on the awesome person you are.

7. Be kind to yourself, okay?

Don’t worry if unwanted thoughts pop up even after trying everything. Getting frustrated just adds fuel to the fire. Instead, be kind to yourself. Remember, it’s normal to have lingering thoughts sometimes.

Focus on self-compassion—do things that make you feel good and loved. That could be anything from relaxing hobbies to spending time with supportive people. Taking care of yourself is key to moving forward healthily.

8. Talk to a therapist or coach

Feeling stuck despite the tips? Consider seeking professional help. Talking to friends and family is great, but a therapist offers an unbiased perspective and specific tools to help you navigate your emotions. They can guide you through this challenging time and help you move forward healthily. Don’t hesitate to reach out for support; you’re not alone.

It’s normal to have lingering thoughts, especially if things ended badly, but blaming yourself just adds to the stress. Know that compatibility plays a big role in relationships, and sometimes it just doesn’t work out.

Another common question you may ask yourself is, “Will I ever get over them?” The key is asking yourself if you even WANT to get over them. How is holding onto them serving you? You know there are countless other people out there. To truly move on, figure out what drew you to that person—connection, intimacy, or something else? Once you understand your needs, you can start looking for those good qualities in others and open yourself up to new possibilities.

So, be kind to yourself, accept what was, and focus on finding someone who truly fits your needs. There’s someone out there for everyone, and focusing on your own happiness is the first step to finding them!

If you like this article, read more here.

Up Next

10 Mistakes Most Men Make With Women

Don't Miss

Valentine’s Day: What To Avoid If You’re Single

FOOD

4 Tips For A Stress-Free Cooking Experience This Christmas

Published

1 hour ago

December 22, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

4 Tips For Stress-Free Cooking Experience This Christmas | fab.ng

The Christmas season is a time for joy, family, and delicious meals. However, cooking can often feel overwhelming, especially with the holiday hustle. With the right approach, cooking Christmas meals can be a stress-free experience.

Here are four practical tips for a stress-free cooking experience this Christmas.

1. Plan Ahead for Every Detail

Preparation is the key to success in the kitchen. Start by creating a detailed menu. Write down the dishes you want to make, the ingredients you need, and the estimated time for each recipe. This planning ensures you stay organised.

Invest time in grocery shopping early. Stores can be crowded closer to Christmas, so getting what you need in advance helps avoid the rush.

Batch-process tasks like peeling vegetables or marinating meat a day or two before. Following these tips for stress-free cooking keeps last-minute chaos at bay.

2. Simplify Your Menu

Christmas meals don’t need to be extravagant to be memorable. Focus on a few key dishes that everyone loves rather than a spread that leaves you exhausted. Choose recipes that are easy to prepare and don’t require constant attention.

For desserts, consider make-ahead options like pies or cookies. These can be prepared in advance, allowing you to spend more time with your guests. Simplifying your menu is one of the best tips for stress-free cooking this Christmas.

3. Use Time-Saving Tools and Techniques

Modern kitchen gadgets are lifesavers during Christmas. Slow cookers, food processors, and stand mixers can help speed up the process while reducing effort.

For large meals, use your oven efficiently. Bake multiple dishes at once if they require the same temperature. Pre-chop ingredients or buy pre-cut options to save valuable time.

Embrace these tips for stress-free cooking to make your holiday meal prep smoother and faster.

4. Delegate and Involve Others

You don’t have to do everything yourself. Share the workload with family or friends. Assign simple tasks like setting the table, washing vegetables, or stirring sauces to others.

If guests offer to bring a dish, accept their help. Potluck-style dinners reduce your cooking burden while adding variety to the table.

Delegating responsibilities is among the most effective tips for stress-free cooking, ensuring you enjoy the process too.

Cooking for Christmas doesn’t have to be a source of stress. By planning ahead, simplifying your menu, using time-saving techniques, and involving others, you can create a joyful and memorable meal.

These four tips for stress-free cooking will not only lighten your load but also let you focus on the true spirit of the season: togetherness and gratitude.

Keep these strategies in mind as you prepare your holiday feast. Merry Christmas and happy cooking!

For more reads, visit here.

DRINKS

3 Best Nigerian Drink Recipes To Share Love This Season

Published

3 hours ago

December 22, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

3 Nigerian Drink Recipes to Share Love This Christmas | fab.ng

Are you planning to celebrate the holiday season by inviting loved ones to share delicious moments? You can delight them with Nigerian drink recipes for Christmas that inspire joy and connection.

Drinks play a central role in festive gatherings, making them the perfect way to create cherished memories. Here are three traditional and modern Nigerian drink recipes for Christmas that will elevate your festive experience.

1. Zobo (Hibiscus Tea)

Zobo is a refreshing and tangy drink made from dried hibiscus petals. This vibrant beverage is a favourite at Nigerian gatherings and a symbol of hospitality. It’s rich in flavour and easy to prepare.

Zobo drink: Nigerian Drink Recipes to Share Love This Christmas | fab.ng

Ingredients:

Dried hibiscus petals (zobo leaves)
Pineapple peels and ginger
Cloves (optional)
Sugar or honey
Water

Preparation:

Rinse the zobo leaves to remove impurities.
Boil them with pineapple peels, ginger, and cloves for added flavour.
Strain the liquid and sweeten it with sugar or honey.
Serve chilled for a refreshing Christmas drink.

Zobo is versatile and can be infused with fruit juices for a personalised touch. It’s an iconic inclusion in Nigerian drink recipes for Christmas.

2. Nigerian Chapman

Chapman is often called “Nigeria’s cocktail.” This sparkling, fruity drink combines bold flavours and a touch of nostalgia. It’s a great non-alcoholic option to add sparkle to your celebrations.

Nigerian chapman; Nigerian Drink Recipes to Share Love This Christmas | fab.ng

Ingredients:

Grenadine syrup
Lemon-lime soda and bitter lemon
Slices of orange, lemon, and cucumber
Ice cubes

Preparation:

In a glass, mix grenadine syrup with ice cubes.
Add equal parts of lemon-lime soda and bitter lemon.
Garnish with orange, lemon slices, and cucumber.

Chapman is perfect for sharing festive cheer with family and friends. Its sweet and tangy taste makes it a staple in Nigerian drink recipes for Christmas.

3. Tiger Nut Milk (Kunun Aya)

This creamy, nutritious drink is made from tiger nuts, a superfood cherished for its health benefits. Tiger nut milk is a wholesome way to toast to health and happiness this holiday season.

Ingredients:

Tiger nuts (soaked overnight)
Water
Sweeteners like dates or honey
Optional: vanilla or cinnamon for added flavour

Preparation:

Blend the soaked tiger nuts with water until smooth.
Strain the mixture using a muslin cloth or fine sieve.
Sweeten with dates or honey and flavour with vanilla or cinnamon.

Tiger nut milk is dairy-free and loaded with nutrients, making it a unique addition to Nigerian Christmas drink recipes.

Tips for Serving Nigerian Christmas Drinks

Elevate Presentation: Use decorative glasses or jars and garnish with fresh fruits or herbs.
Chill Well: Serve your drinks cold to enhance their refreshing qualities.
Customise Flavours: Add seasonal spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to give traditional recipes a holiday twist.

These Nigerian drink recipes for Christmas embody the essence of love, warmth, and togetherness. With each sip, you’ll be creating memories that linger long after the celebrations are over. Cheers to a flavourful and joyous holiday season!

For more detailed recipes, check here.

HEALTHY LIVING

5 Ways To Stay Healthy This Christmas Season

Published

17 hours ago

December 21, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

5 Ways To Stay Healthy This Christmas Season | fab.ng

The Christmas season is full of joy, food, and celebrations, but it can also be a time when health routines fall by the wayside. To stay healthy during the festive period, adopting mindful habits is key.

Here are five actionable strategies to ensure you enjoy the festivities while prioritising your well-being.

1. Make Balanced Food Choices

The holiday season is synonymous with indulgence. While it’s tempting to try everything on the table, opt for a balanced approach. Start meals with proteins and vegetables, which keep you full longer and stabilise your blood sugar.

Enjoy festive treats in moderation, allowing yourself small portions of your favourites without overindulging. By practising mindful eating, you can savour holiday flavours without guilt.

Staying hydrated is equally important. Drink plenty of water to counterbalance rich foods and avoid excessive sugary beverages or cocktails. Alternating alcohol with water is a good way to maintain balance during parties.

2. Prioritise Regular Exercise

Exercise doesn’t have to stop during the Christmas season. Incorporate simple physical activities like morning walks, quick home workouts, or even yoga to maintain your energy levels and reduce stress.

A 10–15 minute walk after meals can aid digestion and manage blood sugar levels. Staying active ensures you feel energised and offsets the effects of holiday indulgences.

3. Manage Holiday Stress

The Christmas season can be hectic, with endless to-do lists and social events. Combat stress by practising mindfulness and setting realistic expectations for your time.

Take breaks when needed, meditate, or engage in activities that help you unwind. Organising your tasks and delegating responsibilities can also alleviate pressure.

4. Get Adequate Sleep

Sleep is crucial for overall health, especially during a busy festive period. Poor sleep can lead to increased cravings and mood swings, making it harder to stick to healthy habits. Aim for 7–8 hours of rest each night.

Create a calming bedtime routine by avoiding screens, dimming lights, and reading a book to relax. Staying consistent with your sleep schedule will keep your energy levels high throughout the Christmas season.

5. Plan Ahead for Healthier Choices

With back-to-back events, it’s easy to fall into unhealthy eating habits. Preparing healthy snacks like nuts, boiled eggs, or fruit ensures you have nutritious options on hand.

Planning meals and snacks ahead of time helps avoid impulsive decisions, keeping your health goals on track even during the busiest days.

Enjoy the Festivities While Staying Healthy

By focusing on mindful eating, staying active, managing stress, sleeping well, and planning ahead, you can enjoy the Christmas season while maintaining your health. Balancing fun with wellness ensures you start the new year feeling your best.

If you found this article helpful, read more here.