Jessica Simpson Reflects on Healing After Ex-Husband’s ‘Mistakes’

Jessica Simpson is choosing love over resentment as she reflects on ex-husband Eric Johnson’s “mistakes” after their unexpected divorce.

In an interview with Parade, the “Take My Breath Away” singer talked about the “painful” breakup and how she copes with it.

“I choose love because if I chose to be resentful or if I chose to let the pain of it overwhelm me, I would fail,” Simpson told the outlet.

The singer also hinted at her ex-husband’s “mistakes” and why she chose to look past them.

“And so I had to choose love and loving people through their mistakes,” Simpson added. “If I’m going to love through my mistakes, I have to love others through their mistakes.”

Jessica Simpson Opens Up About Healing

In the same interview, Simpson opened up about her healing journey following her split from Johnson. The “Irresistible” hitmaker revealed that aside from choosing love and forgiveness, music has helped her cope with heartbreak.

“When I was in Nashville and recording, I was going through a really hard time, an unexpected change of life,” the singer recalled. “I don’t think I’ve ever been so confused. But I didn’t let the confusion, the heartbreak, the negativity of that hold me back.”

Simpson also shared that she worked really hard “to get to a place where I can have grace and compassion for the situation — for the sake of my kids — and be strong for myself, for my kids, for my family, even for Eric. I am a leader. I’m a mom.”

A Look Back Into Jessica Simpson & Eric Johnson’s Relationship

In January, Simpson announced that she and her husband of ten years had split. At the time, she admitted that they had been “living separately” while they dealt with the “painful situation.”

“Eric and I have been living separately, navigating a painful situation in our marriage,” Simpson told PEOPLE. “Our children come first, and we are focusing on what is best for them. We are grateful for all of the love and support that has been coming our way, and appreciate privacy right now as we work through this as a family.”

Simpson and Johnson first met through a mutual friend in 2010. They got engaged in November, just six months into their relationship.

In July 2014, Simpson and Johnson tied the knot in Montecito, with their son and daughter serving as ring bearer and flower girl. The ceremony was attended by over 250 guests.

Simpson and Johnson share three kids: daughters Maxwell “Maxi” Drew, 12, and Birdie Mae, 5, and son Ace Knute, 11.