How to Break Up

Step 4 Make a plan

Decide how much time you're willing to spend breaking up.

It's probably going to go on longer than you'd like. But by now, you know what you want, so don't let it drag on. The time you spend should be proportional to how long you've been together and the intensity of the relationship.

Be respectful of how much time your partner needs to digest this information, but make sure you prepare an exit strategy. It's ok to say, "I've said everything I can, and I can't talk about this more right now."

Prepare your discussion as much as you can.

It's obviously not going to go exactly as you plan, no matter how many contingencies you anticipate. Help yourself by remaining honest and staying on topic.

• Stick to the truth
• Avoid statements like "always" or "never"
• Don't nitpick
• Be respectful, but don't mince your words to spare your partner's feelings
• Be prepared for a strong emotional response
• Be sober

Comments

[lemurslemurs]

Sorry to digress, but I really love the monkey. Naawwww... okay; focused now.

[spencerawr]

Be sober. That's a good, and often over looked one!