Having a relationship end is never easy – and it’s when you’re feeling most vulnerable that people come out of the woodwork to share breakup stories, tips, and questionable coping mechanisms. The truth is, there’s no right way to heal from a breakup – you have to give yourself space to explore what makes you feel better.
That said, when it comes to getting back on your feet after a breakup, you’d be surprised at just how much taking a second to speak your truth can help. Now, does that mean you should air out every grievance, no matter how personal, for the world to see and hear? Not necessarily. But you should never underestimate the power of a good quote – or writing your own – that captures everything you’re feeling and more. Pair that with a picture of you or something that brings you joy, and you’re one step closer to prioritizing your bliss over someone else’s feelings.
Posting something on Instagram to validate your feelings and share how you’re healing can be liberating, yes – but what do you even say? We’ve rounded up some of the best post-breakup captions and ideas that’ll make you feel strong, inspired, optimistic, and ready to take on whatever life throws at you next. Because remember: you’re a vision, and a breakup should never keep you from expressing yourself. Keep reading for 38 empowering, self-loving, thought-provoking Instagram-caption ideas for a breakup. (And once you have your captions set, check out these breakup-bio ideas for Instagram!)
– Additional reporting by Theresa Massony
Unsplash / Arun Sharma
Sometimes, the universe washes all the grime away for you.
Unsplash / Billie
For every person that makes you sad, there are more people that love you so much.
Unsplash / Camille Brodard
It's a glass-half-full kind of day.
Unsplash / eberhard 🖐 grossgasteiger
Letting the sun dry my tears and light up my biggest dreams.
Unsplash / Guilherme Stecanella
I'm protecting my light with all I've got.
Unsplash / Ivana Cajina
Laugh louder than the negative thoughts in your head.
Unsplash / Jen P.
Leaning into the little things that bring me joy.
Unsplash / Jernej Graj
BRB, letting all the negative energy float away.
Unsplash / Joel Muniz
Who needs you when I have this crew?
Unsplash / Mor Shani
Aligning with my highest good only.
Unsplash / No Revisions
People may say things to break your heart, but your plants never will.
Unsplash / Sarah Brown
Sometimes, your most beautiful creations are born from the hurt you feel.
Unsplash / Svyatoslav Romanov
When in doubt, remember the world is much vaster than the jerk making you cry.
Unsplash / Lucas Marconnet
I used to hope that you'd bring me flowers. Now, I plant my own.
Getty / We Are
"What is stronger than the human heart, which shatters over and over and still lives." - Rupi Kaur
Unsplash / Brooke Cagle
I mean, sure, I have my bad days. But then I remember what a cute smile I have.
Unsplash / Drew Dau
Choosing me and my happiness has been the best decision yet.
Unsplash / Philipe Cavalcante
"Let this be the year you choose courage over fear." - Morgan Harper Nichols
Unsplash / Colton Kresser
Loyal, good kisser, best friend . . . no complaints.
Getty / Flashpop
Single ( ), Taken ( ), Too Busy Enjoying Life (✓)
Getty / Luis Alvarez
"I choose to believe I have not missed out on what is meant for me." - Morgan Harper Nichols
Getty / Flashpop
Your value doesn't decrease based on someone's inability to see your worth.
Unsplash / Jayson Hinrichsen
You were my cup of tea, but I drink coffee now.
Getty / FG Trade
"Find the love you seek by first finding the love within yourself." - Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
Unsplash / Lachlan Dempsey
Sometimes, when we lose our way, we find ourselves.
Unsplash / Eric Ward
"I think it's important to realize you can miss something but not want it back." - Paulo Coelho
Unsplash / Nqobile Vundla
"Stop filling the spaces in between with distractions and the right energy will flow in." - Amy Chan
Getty / Justin Lewis
"No one saves us but ourselves." - Buddha
Unsplash / Hannah Busing
Every decision I make is the right decision for me.
Unsplash / Guilherme Stecanella
Instagram partner? You mean self-timer?
Getty / Francesco Carta fotografo
"A strong woman never gives up on herself, but she may give up on you." - Mark Anthony
Getty / Amanda Mustard
"You yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection." - Buddha
Getty / Thomas Barwick
Girls' night out every night until further notice!
Unsplash / Hannah Busing
Remember . . . always know your worth.
Getty / Elize Strydom
When things don't work out, I know something better is waiting for me.
Unsplash / Joanna Nix
Never be afraid to reinvent yourself.
Unsplash / Jared Rice
"The most courageous act is still to think for yourself. Aloud." - Coco Chanel
