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How To Break Up With Someone

by Jessica Stevenson
for About.com

You are in a relationship with someone that you are no longer romantically interested in. It's time to be honest.
Difficulty: Hard
Time Required: 60 minutes

Here's How:

  1. Get alone with him/her. Don't do this on the phone!
  2. Relax. You are doing the right thing...s/he needs to know the truth.
  3. Tell him/her that you feel this relationship on its current level needs to end.
  4. Give him/her some time to let it sink in.
  5. If s/he tries to convince you to give him/her another chance, listen to him/her.
  6. Tell him/her that you've made up your mind.
  7. Tell him/her at what level you would like to keep your relationship (acquaintences, never-seens, friends, etc).
  8. Listen to his/her response. Respect his/her feelings about this new level
  9. Let him/her go when s/he feels s/he needs to end the conversation.

Tips:

  1. Be honest. Although breakups can be really hard on relationships, honesty will salvage any possible future friendship.
  2. When you've realized that you are no longer interested in this person, let him/her know. Don't drag out a pointless relationship.
  3. Look at this like taking off a band-aid. Would you rather do it fast or slow? Which one hurts more?
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