Why Giving Up Chocolate Is Like Getting Over An Ex

Ever gone through a break up? Ever given up chocolate? Turns out, the emotions are pretty similar when you're a chocoholic...

Most of us have have been there - happy in the warm glow of satisfied bliss that we know will never end...

Until it does. Whether it's your choice or not, going cold turkey from such a big part of your life is a devastation you can never really prepare for.

You find yourself thinking about the moments when you were happy together, when things seemed RIGHT. And if we're honest, you probably romanticise it a little.

Ok, a LOT.

Daydreams of time you spent together creep into your day, gradually taking over as you cling to memories of how you used to feel...

Let's face it - it can get a little weird.

But you don't let on to the outside world. You're stronger than that, right?

So, on goes the plastic smile as you power through, dealing with your internal struggle.

To prove a point, you make sure you get out in public and show you're just fine without your one true love. And you're pretty convinced that you're managing to convey a sense of enigmatic nonchalance to everyone around you.

But inside...

The temptation becomes almost overwhelming, and all you can think about is getting your hands on what you so dearly miss...

Until one day, despite your best efforts, you see someone else happily enjoying what you used to have... And you totally lose it.

Despite all your attempts at willpower, negative reinforcement and briefly entertaining the idea of getting yourself hypnotised... you crack and cave to your inner desires.

You're not proud of it, especially if you're caught with your hands in the cookie jar.

After days (even weeks) of the people who know you best questioning your brave face and pushing you to open up, this forces your hand. And you know what? It's a bit of a relief to say it out loud to your friends.

Fortunately, if you're lucky, your friends rally round and help you deal with the emotions - and stop you from trying to give in and go back to the way things were. Sometimes with actual physical force.

Soon you devise some strategies to help you avoid those tempting situations with your old flame. Whether it's relying on friends to give you a bit of moral support....

Or, in extreme cases, running away from the whole situation.

Eventually, you feel ready to get back out there - genuinely this time. And the first thing that hits you is how much you've been missing. Forget the old feelings - there's a world of new experiences awaiting you!