20 Times Beyoncé Helped You Get Through a Breakup

LOS ANGELES, CA – FEBRUARY 08: Recording Artist Beyonce performs onstage during The 57th Annual GRAMMY Awards at the STAPLES Center on February 8, 2015 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Larry Busacca/Getty Images for NARAS)

11. “Best Thing I Never Had”

"Thank God you blew it I thank God I dodged the bullet I’m so over you So baby, good lookin’ out"

This song was on constant repeat the summer of 2011, and it was my jam (okay, it’s still my jam). I’ve had a lot of almost’s—if an “almost” is defined as “I totally would have had a chance if they’d expressed any interest in me whatsoever even a little bit,” anyway. Regardless, looking back, I’m so happy that the things I thought I wanted didn’t work out in the end. Now I see why they didn’t, and every time I hear this song, I’m reminded of what could’ve been and how much none of it’s what I want.

Beyoncé’s account of this near-miss is applicable to just about any breakup. The song is about relief and happiness and freedom, and it doesn’t fail on any technical accounts. That piano, those drums, that chorus, that bridge—you can’t help but be inspired. It’s all renewal and brighter opportunities ahead. It’s a fulfilled hopefulness, a tale of how you don’t have to settle because the best for you is out there. And even if you haven’t found it yet, you’re reminded that you still can. “Best Thing I Never Had” cuts to your core so thoroughly that you can’t help but belt it out when it comes on. I myself have terrorized my friends with my own tone-deaf, top-of-my-lungs shouting of these lyrics out open car windows. It’s a cleansing experience. 10/10 would recommend.

“Best Thing I Never Had” makes it halfway through our list, but I must admit it’s my personal #1.

Next: Beautiful Liar