We humans always seem to focus on the extremes, especially when it comes to how we feel about ourselves. Instead of seeking (and maintaining) a healthy balance, we seem to end up either gorging our egos on shallow adulation and unearned praise or poisoning them with constant self-loathing and relentless abuse. Then we let social media do its part by amplifying whatever pendulum-swing of mania we happen to be suffering and make things even worse.

Breaking up with a toxic partner can be an emotionally devastating experience. You might feel discarded and alone after putting so much effort into your relationship. However, your feelings don't define you. With the right strategies for self-care, you can overcome the pain of a destructive partnership and come out stronger than before.

If you're ready to begin your journey toward healing after a toxic partner, here are a few tips to help you with your healing journey.

Poets ponder it, musicians sing about it, and actors perform it. We know the aphorisms by heart: love conquers all, all you need is love, love is the answer, and on and on. Is it any wonder most of us have come to believe the only thing a relationship requires is love?

Finding genuine love and connection in our fast-paced, constantly connected world can be challenging.

As February approached, thoughts of Valentine’s Day came to mind. I started thinking about all of the familiar stories seen – we all know the ones: A list of what you and your special someone can do on that special day, complete with photos of a couple looking so much in love. Sharing kisses, hugs, flowers and candy.

Traditions can vary dramatically when it comes to walking down the aisle. It’s easy to think you’ve seen it all when it comes to weddings. Staple traditions like tossing the bouquet, “something borrowed, something blue,” or even the first dance seem imprinted on our collective psyche. Even the specifically Jewish tradition of wrapping a glass and stomping on it to shouts of “Mazel Tov” are instantly recognizable wedding customs to most of us.

Oh, the art of dating; it’s become a lost art for many. As a matchmaker who’s witnessed the dating landscape for three decades, I’m not surprised that many old-school courting rituals and dating etiquette are forgotten.

How could people with opposing views—on everything—find themselves drawn together?