Be clear and direct about your decision to end the relationship
Choose a private, respectful time to talk
Keep the message simple and specific
Use “I” statements about your feelings and reasons without blaming
Avoid debating, arguing, or negotiating the decision
Say what you need: whether you want no contact or limited contact
Be honest, but don’t overshare details that will hurt unnecessarily
Acknowledge their feelings briefly without taking responsibility for their reaction
Set boundaries for communication going forward
If you’re breaking up in person, be prepared to end the conversation if it escalates
If you break up by text or message, keep it respectful and don’t prolong it
Don’t contact them “to check in” if you’ve decided to end things
Return or arrange the return of shared belongings promptly
If needed, block or mute them to support your boundary
Avoid mixed signals, promises, or “maybe” language
Follow through on your boundary consistently
If they ask for another chance and you’ve decided no, repeat your decision calmly
If they become unsafe or threatening, end the conversation and seek support