Make a commitment. Decide once and for all you’re going to end it. The process won’t be easy. Your conviction will carry you through.
Enlist support from family and friends. Let others know of your impending breakup. Figure out how they can help. Perhaps you’ll need assistance moving. You may need cheering up when you’re blue. Create your safety net before you actually need it. They’ll want to be there for you.
Make a clean break. Don’t drag things out. Attempting to end things in little steps only prolongs the process.
Don’t try to be friends. You probably won’t have a pleasant relationship following the breakup. There will be anger and hurt feelings that need to heal. Once the emotional dust has settled, you may be able to be pleasant. But that isn’t your immediate goal.
Don’t feel you need to rescue your partner. The breakup will undoubtedly cause pain for your partner. You can’t prevent that from happening. You’re not responsible for his or her emotions.
Fill the void. You’ll have lots of time on your hands following the breakup. Think of positive ways to spend it. Take a class. Do volunteer work. Join a gym. Redecorate your kitchen. You’ll meet new folks and feel good about yourself.
