"How did other continue on this path? How did you handle the not so good days?"
Some suggestions that helped me a LOT!!
Implement the 24 hour rule. Anytime you're dying to contact him, give yourself a full 24 hours before you do anything about it. Chances are, you're suffering in another area and grasping something familiar (the ex) seems to be just what you need to make you feel better. You may be feeling empty but contacting your ex won't help. Each time I changed my mind within the 24 hours and I did not contact him.
So while you're implementing the 24 hour rule, ask yourself if you are Hungry, Angry, Lonely or Tired (HALT). More than likely you are one or a combination of those and much like the alcoholic you are triggered into your sick behavior.
These worked wonders for me while I was going through those first few weeks. One day at a time. That always brings it into perspective for me.