The Breakup How-to Guide

You had a major crush on him for months before he finally asked you out. You became inseparable, and you couldn't have imagined yourself without him.

Now? Something has changed, and you can't imagine your life with him. Hard as it is to believe, you want out of the relationship you worked so hard to get into. So how exactly do you go about breaking up with a BF diplomatically? Here’s our step-by-step guide:

1. Make sure you’re sure.
There’s no guarantee he’ll take you back if you change your mind about this, so you’d better be darn certain this is what you want before you go breaking it off. Is there something in particular that makes you unhappy in the relationship? Some problems can be worked out, like if you want to spend more time with your friends. Other problems, such as his insane jealousy, aren’t so easily solved. Once you figure out what’s wrong, decide if you want to fix it or end it.

2. Be a girl with a plan.
If you definitely want to go through with it, you’re going to have to break the news to your boyfriend. So plan out when and how you're going to tell him. If you're super-peeved at him (say, you heard he made out with your friend), it's best to sit on it for a few days until you’re calm.

3. Give him face time.
Although you could tell him over the phone or by email, talking to him in person is kinder and more respectful. Meet in a quiet place where you won't be interrupted. Do not break up with him at a party or in a crowded restaurant. Being part of a humiliating scene only looks cool on TV.

4. Spit out the truth.
Be honest and direct. Make it clear that you want to end it. Don't give mixed messages that keep him holding out hope. There's no need to explain yourself or place blame. Remember, this is someone you cared about once, and even if you think he's a jerk right now, he still has feelings. All you need to relay to him is, “This isn’t working for me, and I’m moving on.” Then do just that -- move on.