Not everyone marries their first love. That high-school sweetheart love story doesn't exist as much as you think it does. A very small number of people actually end up with the first love of their life. But all is not lost. In fact, it's actually a good thing you've lost your first love. Here's why:

1. The post-breakup period is a time for reflection when you learn more about yourself than anytime ever before.

2. You begin to analyze yourself as a partner, helping you realize the mistakes you’ve made in the past.

3. You let go of your ego and realize what went wrong.

4. And you desire to change yourself for the better.

5. You're more chill now and you know what you're looking for.

6. And when you find the person that likes those things in you, you want to be better for that person too.

7. You learn to express yourself more effectively and communicate more often.

8. You know that it’s better to pick and choose your fights.

9. Your partner's happiness outweighs the need to be right.

10. You don't take days for granted anymore.

You become an even better version of yourself that your ex would be jealous of.