How to break up with someone gently

[Calliope]

My S.O. is really sweet and nice to be around and they like a lot of the things that I like, but I have come to the realization that I'd be happier being just friends with them. They seem to be really in love with me, and I just feel SO guilty because I don't feel the same way. It's obvious I should break up with them, no point in being in a relationship with someone you don't like romantically - but I can't bring myself to do it, I don't want to break their heart. Any tips for breaking up with them as gently as I possibly can? I'd also like to stay friends, but that might not be possible seeing as a friendship would be really awkward if we've already dated. Thanks guys!

[Melodic]

Don't use a cheesy line like "We can still be friends" "It's not you, it's me." Just be straight forward and kind with them.

[ImagineRepublicCity]

Say it straight and let her know, "Look, I really do like you as a friend, but I really don't think dating is really the go for me"
And make sure you explain it and don't leave them hanging, because that sucks.
Also, give them time. If they still want to be your friend, then sure, go ahead, but if they don't feel comfortable, then things just go that way. If you just act chill and whatnot, normally things will be fine.

I wish you all the best~ c:

[omgwuut]

you can't break up with someone gently. no matter how nice you'll say it, it will still hurt cause breaking up means you two have to go separate ways. hmm.. just be honest with your partner and tell them what you really feel

[Body odah Man]

My S.O. is really sweet and nice to be around and they like a lot of the things that I like, but I have come to the realization that I'd be happier being just friends with them. They seem to be really in love with me, and I just feel SO guilty because I don't feel the same way. It's obvious I should break up with them, no point in being in a relationship with someone you don't like romantically - but I can't bring myself to do it, I don't want to break their heart. Any tips for breaking up with them as gently as I possibly can? I'd also like to stay friends, but that might not be possible seeing as a friendship would be really awkward if we've already dated. Thanks guys!

There's no way to do this without hurting the other one unless they have the same feelings. Just make it a clean break, don't leave them with false hope that the relationship could resume or anything

[Charlie48]

Just be honest, the truth isn't always kind or painless, it's more up to them to deal with it. Sounds kinda harsh but it's better than trying to let them down gently and end up making them feel humiliated.

[SethfromMI]

if one person is in love then the break up will never be gentle. just try to be honest with the person. don't have to lie and make it sound positive. try not to be rude or condescending, but just say honestly why you don;t want to be in the relationship anymore

[riverboy]

Charlie48 and SethfromMI said it all.

[Calliope]

Alright, thanks guys! I think I know what to do now, I just need to work up the guts to say it ;-;

EDIT: Okay, it's over. Thanks for the advice.

[Indio]

My S.O. is really sweet and nice to be around and they like a lot of the things that I like, but I have come to the realization that I'd be happier being just friends with them. They seem to be really in love with me, and I just feel SO guilty because I don't feel the same way. It's obvious I should break up with them, no point in being in a relationship with someone you don't like romantically - but I can't bring myself to do it, I don't want to break their heart. Any tips for breaking up with them as gently as I possibly can? I'd also like to stay friends, but that might not be possible seeing as a friendship would be really awkward if we've already dated. Thanks guys!

Maybe you could share them your crushes so they will realize your preference. Love us from within and should not be forced. If you don't feel it then express it.

[Paladino]

Don't use a cheesy line like "We can still be friends" "It's not you, it's me." Just be straight forward and kind with them.

I keep getting this. I don't think there is any way that can make a break up more gentle if they really really love you. You just have to be honest I suppose and tell them why it's not working for you.

[mrmee]

Tell them you think you should break up because you see them as more of a friend. thts how my last relationship ended and we're still pretty close friends

[Calliope]

I keep getting this. I don't think there is any way that can make a break up more gentle if they really really love you. You just have to be honest I suppose and tell them why it's not working for you.

Maybe you could share them your crushes so they will realize your preference. Love us from within and should not be forced. If you don't feel it then express it.

Tell them you think you should break up because you see them as more of a friend. thts how my last relationship ended and we're still pretty close friends

Thanks, but I already broke up with them. I don't need any more advice.

[ImagineRepublicCity]

Locked by OPs request. :locked: