Breaking Up Is Hard to Do

Now that we’ve talked a little about relationships, we can move onto the next step: ending them. Just kidding, not all relationships end. Some endure forever or at least till one person passes away. Not all relationships are “happily ever after” however. Here are some tips on how to handle your next breakup.

If you’ve just been dumped:

·       Give yourself some space from your ex. You will never get over them if you continue cohabitating like nothing happened. If you can’t get out immediately try at least crashing at a friend's the first few nights. Now your ex can’t hear if you cry over them.

·       It is okay to cry. One time a very nice guy broke up with me and I told him to go away so I could cry. “No, I want to make sure you are okay” he said. Not only that but he wiped the tears away with his hands. This did send  mixed signals but he was clear he liked me only as a friend.

·       Give yourself some time. Wallow if you must but only for the first 48 hours. Watch sad movies. Eat chocolate. Ask your ex not to contact you. He made his decision. You made yours.

If you are the one who initiated the breakup:

·       While being kind, try being as honest as possible. I’ve been dumped for several reasons like my parents are overprotective or that there was “no spark” (you can’t force feelings). I have dumped people for being abusive or because they were unfaithful. Don’t make something up. Be honest without being cruel.

·       If you are worried for your physical safety (i.e. your partner is abusive) you need to do the breaking up in a public place. Make sure you are staying somewhere safe. This is the most dangerous time for someone who was in an unsafe relationship.

·       Always try to do breakups face to face. I’ve been broken up via webcam and via text. It sucks. But sometimes its not always feasible to do it in person (long distance or you are worried for your physical safety. In that case, give them a call instead).