After breakup, woman unsure of future

DEAR HARRIETTE >>

I never thought I'd find myself in this situation, but here

I am.

Recently, I was dumped by my longterm boyfriend and

I'm feeling lost and embarrassed. We've been together for nearly a decade and the sudden end of our relationship has left me completely unsure of what to do next. I'm 30 years old and it feels like I'm starting over in so many aspects of my life. The future I envisioned with him is now gone and I'm struggling to make sense of it all. The pain is overwhelming and I'm not sure how to deal with the heartbreak. I find myself wondering what went wrong and how I can move forward. The thought of facing the world as a single woman in my 30s is both intimidating and daunting. How do I cope and where do I even begin to rebuild my life?

I feel like I've lost a part of myself, and I'm unsure of who I am outside

Happy Birthday: Nothing will stop you if you are diligent about what you want to achieve this year. Your numbers are 6, 13, 20, 27, 36, 41, 45.

Birthday Baby: You are optimistic, honest and opportunity-driven. You are loving and loyal.

Aries (March 21-April 19): Shake off any negativity that comes your way and focus on what you want to achieve. \*\*

Taurus (April 20-May 20): Don't get angry, get moving. Take your attributes and stretch them to the limit. \*\*\*\*

Gemini (May 21-June 20): Can you keep a secret? It will backfire if you are too revealing and someone will steal your thunder and run of this relationship. — Dumped

DEAR DUMPED >> Take a deep breath. It's time to regroup. As daunting as it seems today, at least you are free of this relationship at a point when you still have a full life ahead of you. Look at this as a fresh start. Take a minute to determine what type of relationship you are looking for. What qualities do you want in a partner? What don't you want? Then get out there and meet new people. Do you have single friends? Perhaps you can go out with some of them. Let friends know that you are back on the market.

Definitely invest in a therapist who can help you get over the negative feelings you may have about yourself and your past so that you are completely available for what's next in your life. You can do it!

DEAR HARRIETTE >> with your thoughts. \*\*\*

Cancer (June 21-July 22):

Show what you have to offer. Learn all you can and teach those you love. \*\*\*

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22):

You can say what's on your mind, but that doesn't mean you'll get what you want. Once you know where you stand, adjust your plans to fit the circumstances. \*\*\*

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22):

You're in the driver's seat, so take control and don't stop until you reach your destination. A hands-on approach to life, love and happiness will help bring about the changes you want to pursue and convince loved ones to indulge and support your efforts. \*\*\*\*

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): I may be a part of the LGBTQ+ community, but I am hesitant to embrace this aspect of my identity due to the lack of acceptance from those around me. The thought of not being accepted for who I am is causing me distress and uncertainty. I yearn to live authentically and be accepted for who I am, but the fear of rejection is holding me back. Any guidance or support you can offer on embracing my identity and dealing with the reactions of those who may not understand or accept me would be greatly appreciated.

— Identity Crisis

DEAR IDENTITY CRISIS >> You owe it to yourself to figure out who you are and who and how you love. That does not mean that there won't be people who will criticize you and possibly go out of their way to make you feel uncomfortable. So be it.

Before you wage that war, focus on your life and explore your identity.

Don't let mixed emotions lead to trouble. Take your time, sort through your thoughts and plans and address issues when you feel confident you have everything in place to turn your dreams into a reality. \*\* Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Go over your finances, address medical issues and review documents that require attention. Knowing where you stand will allow you to make exciting plans with someone you love. \*\*\*\*\*

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Step around anyone who tries to pose a problem for you. The less information you offer, the better. Distance yourself from anyone looking for a scapegoat. \*\*\* Look around in your area to see where people from the LGBTQ+ community gather. Put yourself in that environment so that you can meet like-minded people. Take your time to meet people and build friendships with them. Take it slow as you expand your horizons. And feel free to keep your personal relationships to yourself.

If you feel unsafe, consider moving to an area that is more welcoming. You can live the life that reflects who you are. It may take a few strategic steps to make that happen, but don't give up stepping into the fullness of who you are, whomever that is.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Look at your financial situation and make changes to help you build equity. Home improvements that add to your comfort and entertainment are favored if you stick to a set budget. \*\*\*

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Contain your thoughts and avoid an unnecessary argument. Overreacting will lead to poor behavior and problems with people who can cause you grief. \*\*\* Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20): Jump into action and put a plan in motion. Those you approach will broaden your awareness and help you fine-tune your intentions to ensure you meet your needs. Romance is on the rise. \*\*\*\*\*