Whoever said breaking up was hard to do was clearly out-to-lunch. For most of us, breaking up is damn near one of the most difficult experiences you’ll ever have the displeasure of initiating. But when it’s time, you need to clear your head, take a deep breath and get it done. Keeping a few points in mind might help ease your pain.

1) Be precise. It’s like that whole B.S. about ripping off a Band-Aid where they say if you do it fast, it hurts less. Those people were lying to you and need to be punished, but it holds true in this situation. Saying that you think you should breakup is very different from saying you are breaking up. Pick your words carefully. Be precise and you’ll save yourself further headaches.

2) If it’s right, do it tonight. Once your heart has made the decision it’s time to let your mouth do what it does best. Let them know it the moment you’re sure it’s over and you’ll be clear of it come morning.

3) Make the arrangements. If you have things of theirs or they have some of your belongings, make sure you agree how to deal with them. Make sure to pack their goods up with the same care that you’d expect from them and you will help avoid finding your prized possessions scattered over their front lawn.

4) Don’t make it personal. Of course, relationships are exactly that. If it’s really and truly over and there’s no going back, what use is there in dragging up old events? Keep it simple, state the fact that you can’t continue and be done with it.

5) Do it however you feel is best. Most say that this is the type of thing you need to do in person. If the person has meant that much to you, of course this is the way to go. However, if they don’t deserve the common courtesy of a face-to-face, get it done whatever way you feel comfortable with. This decision is about you, remember, and if you think they’ll blow up or be unable to handle it, maybe its better you’re not around.

6) Act like royalty. It’s always best keep above the crowd and walk the high road. This means being a lady or gentleman and carrying yourself in an appropriate fashion. This means no mud slinging, name calling or publishing of private photos on the Internet for all to see.

Following these six simple steps won’t guarantee you a painless parting, but it will ensure you’re doing everything you can to make the transition as smooth and easy as possible. Good luck and let us know how it goes!