How do you end a relationship that doesn't satisfy your expectations?

[lemonette]

[nurse]

Ending a relationship that isn't meeting your expectations can be really tough, but sometimes it's necessary for both parties' well-being. Here’s how I'd approach it, based on my own experiences and what I've seen with friends:

Self-Reflection First: Before making any moves, I'd recommend really reflecting on why the relationship isn't satisfying your expectations. Is it something that could be resolved with communication or changes in behavior? Or are these fundamental issues that can't be aligned?

Choose the Right Setting: Breaking up shouldn't happen over a text or call (unless the situation involves safety concerns). It's respectful to do it in person, in a private, comfortable space where both of you can express yourselves freely without causing a public scene.

Be Honest but Kind: When you talk, be clear and honest about your reasons, but also be compassionate. For instance, saying "I feel like my needs for X aren't being met, and I don't see a way forward for us" is better than "You never meet my needs."

Listen to Their Side: Be prepared to listen to their perspective. They might have feelings or viewpoints you hadn't considered.

Be Firm in Your Decision: If you've made up your mind, it's crucial to be firm about it. Giving mixed signals can be confusing and hurtful in the long run.

Plan for Post-Breakup: Think about the practicalities - like shared belongings, living arrangements, or mutual friends.

Seek Support: Ending a relationship can be emotionally draining. Lean on friends, family, or even a therapist for support.

Give Yourself Time to Heal: Finally, give yourself permission to grieve and heal. Even if you're the one ending things, it's normal to feel a range of emotions.

[SherriMarieValentine]

Honesty is always the best policy. Communication is ALWAYS key. Talk about what you want, desire, and need from a relationship. If you both can not be intimately honest then there is a problem already. With this ground work set, if it's time to move on be upfront and rip off the band-aid. Be honest, factual, and as empathetic and possible. "Know your enemy as you know yourself and you'll win a hundred battles." - Sun Tzu This concept applies to this situation by knowing what you need, and communicating that. If they do not tell you, then you do not know. Like in military leadership, be firm, be fair, be factual.

[IslaTheWitch]

In a civilized way, preferably.

Talk with your partner. Say openly that you want to break up and explain in simple and short words why. The closure is important.

Be prepared to answer some questions. But if you have already decided, don't engage in any discussions or blaming-fest.

[caring__1]

Be honest and let the other person know the relationship isn't working for you. It has nothing to do with his value as a person, but it's different from what you are seeking from a partner. Don't mention how he isn't measuring up, but if he wants to know, share what does work for you (though never use the word "you"). You can say you have no desire to change others or conform to what they prefer. Let him know it's like going to a restaurant with someone, yet realizing you generally don't order the same menu item as the other person. It's not a negative statement about what the other orders; it's merely your preference at that particular moment in time. Our preferences don't minimize the value of whatever might be different. Wish him the best in finding the happiness he deserves.

[ohmyguy]

A 100 percent amicably at and around the first sight of discord.. before any damage is done.. bowing out gracefully on good terms or civil circumstances is best

Knowing and recognizing how it is n how it's not going in the desired direction.. early on.. taking control n not allowing to go deeper.. respect and understanding of the other. N refusing to be malicious coming to grips with personal flaws.. cultivating a capacity to see unforeseeable points of view..

Be grateful that u get to play beyond your skill once in a while but it's shittier being cut from a team you wrongly believe your good enough for but actuality plan was always to trade you

[PeteBy]

Assuming he's not done anything wrong. Always better to be honest. The longer you leave it, the more they will hurt. You may help him in future relationships too. Never good to end it without explanation as it can cause animosity when its not necessary

[BadApple69]

It's my opinion that if you were the girl I was dating... I would want you to sit me down and tell me... “This just isn't working” I would ask why? And want to know if it can be fixed... It might get uncomfortable for a bit. Stick to what you believe, say what you have to say with confidence and control. That's the best I got! Good Luck!

[sawno]

Personally i'd be truthful as to why so he knows, that way he won't keep second guessing himself for the next year as to what it might have been.

[SimplyPut]

Straight forward. Don't let them find out from someone else you aren't happy. Better to state your reasons and see if there is a solution. If there isn't that person can move passed it quicker.

[sage2021]

If you're in a relationship, just cheat on her and let her find out about it. That always does it for me when a guy cheats on me. The End

[exitseven]

I did it over the phone one Saturday night. I just made up my mind and had a speech I made up and just tried to be as nice about it as I could be

[FreyaRed]

'you deserve someone better than me' are the magic words

[Luopio27]

I would be hurt by those words. Love has never been about rewarding kindness!

[serious_miss419]

Tell them this “I’m a sh*tty person and can’t be with ya, sorry I wasted your time”.
Then go cold turkey

[Fireguy17]

Be honest, talk about it and move on.

While it's not a fun thing to do it's the right thing and way to do it.

[ObscuredBeyond]

Examine the merits of your expectations, and why everything is about what you expect.

[loveslongnails]

You tell the truth. Be as kind as possible, but don't lie, and never say "it's not you, it's me". That's a very different statement than saying "We want different things".

[nawtee_me]

Expectations always get me in trouble. I tend to look at things from my perspective and I want more than I get. Expectations can be corrected with honest conversation.

[Nikki1989]

Be honest and keep it short and sweet.

[Anonymous]

For me, No words were needed. He got the hint. Normally, Sitting them down and talking turkey.

[deus_ex_sisyphus]

If its less than a month - ghost them. If its over that or if they had a big impact on you, tell them in person that its not working out

[captain_voidwalker]

Like this

[Bklynbadboy12]

Just be honest with him or her. They may not like it at first but trust me they'll appreciate your honesty

[Alex8736]

Just be honest that it's not working out and leave it at that

[Isabellaioss]

Try to go ahead and talk to the person when the both of you are in a good state of mind.

[NeverGiveUp69]

Send them a text:

Dear baby,
Welcome to dumpsville.
Population: You