Sometimes relationships as boyfriend and girlfriend fall away. You may have been together a long time, but if it’s not working, moving on is a better idea than letting the relationship stall and die. Breaking up can be made easier by following some simple advice.

1. Prepare him/her for the breakup: start preparing your partner mentally for the break up. Asking about relationship satisfaction and letting him/her know how you feel will create a good platform for the day when you will “let the cat out of the bag”.

2. Select a neutral breakup place: selecting a good location for announcing your break up is quite important. Any place where both of you will feel comfortable will work. Avoid announcing the break up at your place. The emotional conversation may go on and you could be left with no choice but to stay there. Announcing a breakup at a public place like a restaurant or movie theatre is recommended, as long as your partner is not too dramatic. This will make things easier for you and you can go away with more ease afterwards.

3. Be reasonable with your ex: it’s ok that you are no longer concerned about their feelings, but make sure that you do reply honestly when they ask you for an explanation of the breakup. A person you’ve been with in a relationship deserves respect. Be the better person and honestly tell them why you have made this decision. If you leave them to guess, they might be confused or keep on following you.

4. Clear up finances: It is best to clear any financial dues with your ex now you have broken up. Don’t let debt linger in a relationship – especially post break up. Make a clean break as best able – don’t carry baggage with you.

5. Avoid lingering discussions: Avoid taking any calls, replying to messages etc. from your ex-partner, as much as you can. If your ex is trying hard to reach you, make it very clear to them that you need time for yourself – for now. Stick to this and be loyal to your plan.

Break ups are not easy, but planning for the end in advance can be helpful.