Many men feel too guilty about breaking up with their girlfriends and hurting their feelings. So, they procrastinate doing the inevitable. Some even torture themselves by prolonging the relationship. This leads to unnecessary complications and eventually only makes the decision harder. It is important to remember that happiness in a relationship is a two-way street – so, if you are unhappy about the relationship, it is likely your girlfriend is also unhappy – she may not have recognized it yet or may be as hesitant as you are about addressing it.

TIP #1: Don't feel guilty about breaking up, because the breakup will avoid a lot of trouble down the road.

Other men simply breakup coldly and hurt the feelings of the apposite sex. A man should exit gracefully by planning the break up to avoid causing undue grief to his partner. It is important to handle the break-up in a mature manner. After all, you never know who your ex-girlfriend might talk to – your colleagues, boss or friends; her friends; and, your future girlfriends.

TIP #2: Handle the breakup with grace, dignity and sensitivity.

THE BREAKUP:

There is no easy way out of a breakup. The ignore her 'till she goes away approach never works and it only brings confrontation. So, when it comes to breakups, honesty is the best policy. Handling the breakup, and the person, with respect and dignity helps soften the blow. Being diplomatic is a great way to ensure the does not affect the other person emotionally and psychologically.

TIP #3: Make sure you don't say something that is hurtful, unkind or negative about her that might offend her. Avoid making personal remarks about your girlfriend's appearance or behavior.

Stay focused on the relationship per se during the breakup. Just simply tell her the relationship is not working out and it's best that both of you end it now and get on with your lives. Reiterate that it is not personal.

TIP #4: Avoid giving specific reasons for why you want to break up. If she insists, just mention that she's a lovely woman, but you feel that you are not compatible and you don't think there is any scope for a long-term commitment.

TIP #5: Using the “I think you're a great girl and I don't deserve you” line may look like a sensitive approach to adopt. But, she will see through the lie and will likely be devastated later.

Breaking up is hard to do, but you must do it in person and not over the phone or via e-mail. If you don't, you are an insincere coward who lacks integrity and common courtesy to face her during the breakup. Breaking up in person is never easy, but you owe it to her.

TIP #6: Inform her ahead of time that you need to talk. Hopefully this will be a hint and she will be prepared for the breakup when she meets you.