How to End a Relationship Gracefully

Amy Applebaum's picture
Posted by Amy Applebaum on March 11, 2008 1:47 PM PDT
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1. It is crucial, in any relationship (unless it is abusive), that prior to "ending" it, you communicate what isn't working, what concerns or upsets you are having and discuss the possibilities of resolving those issues. You may be surprised sometimes.

2. Then make agreements, set goals and create action steps towards the solutions you came up with. What requests do you both have? What boundaries? Etc.

3. Assuming you did 1 and 2; should you finally determine that the relationship is "not a good fit" then, you can have that conversation knowing that you have both given your best and worked to resolve any issues - this makes for a cleaner "break-up."

4. When you do have the “break-up” conversation, be straightforward and communicate that it is “no longer” a fit.

5. Tie up any loose ends - come to agreements on how to wrap up the loose ends. Get those points in writing so you are clear on where both parties stand and there is no confusion.

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