Jennifer Lopez is discovering “happiness within myself” in the months following her separation from Ben Affleck.

In her Interview magazine cover feature released on Wednesday, the accomplished artist discussed her journey of self-esteem, navigating the challenging entertainment industry, and rebuilding herself after her “entire world blew up” during an interview with comedian and TV personality Nikki Glaser.

This past spring, rumors emerged about issues in their relationship when the couple made fewer appearances together at public events. Reports indicated they had stopped living together, and in May, Lopez called off her “This Is Me Live” tour, stating she needed time to be with her children, family, and close friends.

“I can’t wait to get back out there. My fans are the most understanding and loving people. Many fan bases can be intense, but mine is just full of love. I felt terrible about disappointing anyone, but I needed that time for myself and my kids to really reflect on everything happening in my life,” Lopez shared with Glaser.

She continued, “I’m grateful I took that time, as it was an incredibly tough period. Probably the most challenging I’ve faced, but it was also the most rewarding because I could focus on self-improvement.”

Why JLo doesn’t regret the breakup with Ben Affleck

During this challenging year, Lopez has been taking a break from work, mainly promoting her new film “Unstoppable” at the Toronto International Film Festival. In this biopic, she portrays Judy Robles, the mother of real-life wrestler Anthony Robles.

Although she’s proud of her recent projects, including the February release of her album “This is Me  Now,” she mentioned that her “entire world crashed down” during her split from Affleck.

Lopez reflected, “There were moments when I believed I had everything sorted out, only for life to throw another challenge my way. It was a lesson I had to learn, and I didn’t realize it until recently. This doesn’t mean I won’t make mistakes again, but when your whole foundation collapses, you find yourself amidst the wreckage wondering, ‘How do I prevent this from happening again?'”

This summer, Lopez chose to focus on spending time alone to affirm to herself that she can thrive independently. “To pursue something more fulfilling, you need to be content on your own,” she expressed.

“It feels lonely, unfamiliar, and daunting. It can be sad and desperate,” Lopez described the challenges of solitude. “But when you embrace those feelings and realize, ‘These emotions won’t destroy me,’ you come to understand that you can find joy and happiness within yourself.”

“Being in a relationship doesn’t define my worth. I can’t seek happiness through others anymore; I must be happy on my own. I used to think I was a joyful person while still relying on someone else for fulfillment, but I’ve learned that I’m actually fine as I am.”

When asked about the “pain” from her recent experiences, Lopez firmly stated that she believes “this is precisely where I was meant to be to guide me toward my future goals.”

“That doesn’t mean it didn’t almost break me. It nearly did,” she admitted. “But now, looking back, I realize  That was exactly what I needed. Thank you, God. I apologize that it took me so long to grasp it. I should’ve learned this lesson much earlier.’

Jennifer Lopez declares she’s ‘not seeking’ romance post-Ben Affleck divorce

Lopez also discussed her evolving perspective on love in her conversation with Glaser, questioning the idea that “you must love yourself before allowing someone else to love you.”

“It suggests that if I have flaws, I shouldn’t be loved until I’m perfect. That’s misleading! Genuine love helps you heal the parts of yourself that need nurturing,” Lopez clarified. “Love is about security. You create a safe space for one another, and when I falter, you support me and help me grow while respecting our individual boundaries.”

Although Glaser remarked that Lopez may have “set a new standard” for future partners, the singer responded that she’s “not actively searching for anyone.”

“For those who cherish romance and dream of growing old with someone, it can feel like you need that connection to feel complete and happy. But you don’t,” Lopez concluded.