I think Neil Sedaka said it best. Breaking up is hard to do. People are always asking, wondering, contemplating, “What is the best way to break up with someone?” In all honesty, I don’t think there is a best way. It’s just one of those things we all have to do in life that is going to be uncomfortable. Which leads me to my questions this week: When it comes to breaking up with your sign...

I think Neil Sedaka said it best. Breaking up is hard to do. People are always asking, wondering, contemplating, “What is the best way to break up with someone?” In all honesty, I don’t think there is a best way. It’s just one of those things we all have to do in life that is going to be uncomfortable. Which leads me to my questions this week: When it comes to breaking up with your significant other, do you give the actual reason(s) as to why you want the relationship to end, or to save face, do you lie?

We all know the classic break up sayings: “It’s not you, it’s me” / “I just need to focus on my career right now” / “I am not the relationship type” / “You could do so much better than me”. Raise your hand if you have ever heard one of these. Okay, I can’t see. But I’ll just pretend you are all sitting at your computers or smart phones with a hand raised in agreement.

When we say these things, we know it’s a lie. And when we hear these things, we know it’s a lie. But, what would you rather hear? A false excuse that ends the relationship in a civil, clear cut way, or them saying “I just really hate your laugh” or “My family thinks you smell” or “I think you are a complete moron”? We all say we want the truth, but as you can see, sometimes the truth hurts. Maybe it is best to be left in the dark.

Every person is different, and every relationship is different. We all cope and handle with things differently. Sometimes relationships fizzle out and both parties agree it is time to go their separate ways, while most of us are sideswiped and shocked when our boyfriend or girlfriend sits us down to have “the talk”. You never want to hear someone you are dating say the word, “Listen”. It is never going to be a musical performance or a joke they heard at work.

They are going to tell you that it is just not working FOR THEM. All of the blame usually goes on the dump-er. They do this so they do not hurt anyone’s feelings in the process of escaping a relationship.

I guess, when it comes down to it, the excuse should depend on the relationship situation. If you have only been dating for a few months, maybe it is best to just fib a little bit. However, if you have been together for years, even married, I would suggest that it might be a good idea to give actual reasons so the person is not left out in the dark.

But please, dumpers, whatever you do. Don’t end the conversation with “Can we still be friends?”