Breaking up with a partner is rarely easy, but there are respectful ways to go about it. Hosts Patricia Wu, Jessica Reyes, and guest therapist Ryan Heapy share tips on how to exit a relationship gracefully.
Do It Face-to-Face
Avoiding breakups through text or email and having the conversation face-to-face shows respect and maturity. Ryan says if you’re in a serious relationship, breaking up digitally without following up can come across as disrespectful, lazy, and shows a lack of integrity.
Taking the time to meet in person not only honors the relationship you had but also allows for a more genuine and heartfelt conversation. It gives an opportunity to address any questions or concerns, helping both parties find closure.
Fulfill Your Obligations
Make sure to fulfill any promises or obligations before you exit a relationship. If you live together, make sure to tie up loose ends with your shared space so you don’t put all of that responsibility on your ex partner. Ryan explains that when we leave a relationship, we want to be able to feel good about ourselves and not feel burdened by guilt or shame about how the breakup could have been handled.
Avoid Blaming the Other Person Gracefully
Show compassion and empathy for the other person’s feelings during the breakup. Ryan points out that you likely loved this person at some point, so maintain as much respect as you did for them in the best of times.
Acknowledge their emotions and give them space to express how they feel, ensuring that the conversation remains respectful and considerate. It’s important to remember that breakups are challenging for both parties, and handling it with kindness can make a big difference in how both of you move forward.
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