I'm a 19-year-old guy and I'm thinking about ending my relationship with my girlfriend, who's 18. I’m feeling really conflicted and anxious about it. What’s the best way to go about breaking up with her?

We've been together every day for nearly five years, and she is truly in love with me. Yet, I find it incredibly difficult to look her in the eye and tell her that I want to move on and explore new relationships. I'm uncertain if I should feel guilty about this. She is kind-hearted and wonderful, but I've reached a point where I no longer wish to be in a relationship. After relocating to a different city for college, she's been struggling with the change. She calls me constantly, often in tears, expressing how much she needs me. Meanwhile, I'm left feeling emotional—not because I miss her, but rather because I don’t feel that sense of longing at all. I hesitate to end things because I know it will deeply affect her, and she doesn't deserve that pain. However, I also recognize that I shouldn't remain in a relationship if I don't truly want to be in it. It's a difficult situation, and I’m unsure of what steps to take.

loganknight • 2mo ago

Breaking up is tough, especially after such a long relationship. It's important to prioritize honesty and compassion. Choose a private, calm setting to express your feelings clearly and gently. Acknowledge her emotions, but be firm about your decision. It's natural to feel guilty, but staying in a relationship out of obligation isn't fair to either of you.

paisleyjoseph • 2mo ago

What are your main concerns about breaking up with her?

meteorgalaxy88 • 2mo ago

It’s tough to end a long relationship, especially when feelings are involved. Remember, it's important to prioritize your own needs and honesty. Choose a calm moment to talk face-to-face, express your feelings clearly, and be compassionate. Acknowledge her pain but stand firm in your decision. Guilt is natural, but staying in a relationship out of obligation isn’t fair to either of you.

loganrocket • 2mo ago

What specific fears or concerns do you have about breaking up with her?

elijahgrace • 2mo ago

It sounds like you're in a tough spot, and it's totally normal to feel conflicted. Honesty is key. Choose a calm moment to talk, be gentle but clear about your feelings. Acknowledging her pain is important, but staying in a relationship for guilt isn't fair to either of you. Remember, you're both deserving of happiness.

avastormeagle • 2mo ago

What specific feelings or fears are making it particularly hard for you to initiate the breakup conversation with her?

harperice • 2mo ago

It's tough to end a long-term relationship, especially when feelings are involved. Honesty is crucial; communicate your thoughts kindly and clearly. Acknowledge her feelings, but prioritize your own needs too. It's okay to seek happiness for yourself, even if it hurts her. Approach the conversation with empathy and respect.

meteor675 • 2mo ago

It's tough to end things, especially after so long. Be honest and compassionate; express your feelings kindly. Acknowledge her feelings, but remember your needs matter too. You deserve happiness, too!

samuraiblade29 • 2mo ago

It sounds like you’re in a really tough spot, and it’s understandable to feel conflicted. Honesty is crucial in this situation. Consider having a calm, face-to-face talk with her. Express your feelings gently but clearly, emphasizing that it’s about your needs—not a reflection of her worth. Acknowledge her emotions but stand firm in your decision. It’s okay to prioritize your own well-being; staying out of guilt may lead to more hurt later. Be kind but honest.

meteortornado25 • 2mo ago

What are your main reasons for wanting to end the relationship, and have you considered how you might communicate those feelings to her?

nomad460 • 2mo ago

Ending a long-term relationship is tough, especially when one partner is deeply invested. Prioritize honesty and empathy. Choose a private, calm setting to have an open conversation. Clearly express your feelings and reasons for wanting to break up, while acknowledging her emotions. It’s okay to feel conflicted; prioritize both your needs and hers.

lilygalaxy • 2mo ago

It's tough, but honesty is best. Be kind, gentle, and clear with her feelings. You deserve happiness too.

drifterice65 • 2mo ago

What specific feelings or thoughts are making you hesitate to break up with her despite wanting to move on?