How can I tell her it is
over
while causing her the minimum amount of pain?
I have been going out with my girlfriend for 3 years. To me the relationship
has always been a comfortable one - we are the best of friends and I share everything with her. Everything except the fact that I have recently
discovered that I don't love her, while I have the impression that she loves
me a lot. She has always pushed the relationship along a lot, and I guess I
have sort of gone with the flow. It has got to the stage now when she wants
us to live together. I think I got into the whole relationship because I was
lonely, but I did not expect things to go on this long or get so serious.
Now I feel I want to break up, to avoid the seriousness of living together,
and so that I can have the freedom to peruse another relationship where I
can have the chance to find love and friendship together (or am I dreaming
?!) I am not courageous enough to tell her this because she is happy in the
relationship (well, except when she sensed my doubts) and we are such good
friends I hate to upset her. I need simple practical advice on how to tell
her that it's over while causing her the minimum of pain.. I would really
appreciate any advice you could give. signed Phil, age 27
Dear Phil: Thank you for the email. The best approach is the
direct approach. Set up a meeting with her in a public place. Find a quite
corner and tell her how you feel. You can't keep her from hurting over what
you have to say. She is responsible for how she reacts. She is
responsible for how she feels. You are responsible for your actions and your
thoughts. No one can make you
do anything. It is time you be honest with yourself and her. Honor her
enough to tell it straight and don't feel responsible for her reactions.
Love and friendship is a reality for anyone that seeks it. I wish you all
the best.
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Please understand
you have free will. This advice is given only in the realm of
personal growth and self-help. This is not to be considered a substitute
for therapy or professional counseling. We wish you well.
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