5 Respectful Ways To Break Up With A Friend

Sadly, not all friends are forever, so it is important to learn how to break up with a friend respectfully. Use these tips to help you move on.

Sometimes friendships come in phases or waves, other times they are short-lived, and yes, they can last a lifetime. But, when things have run their course or you’re in different places in your lives, learning how to break up with a friend in the most respectful way possible is a great life skill to master.

Friendship has this unrealistic element of foreverness. You’ve heard “Best Friends Forever” and “relationships come and go, but friends are forever.” These are nice ideas, but friendships just don’t work that way.

People come and go in our lives. Sure, it is nice if you grew up with a best friend and you stay close until you grow old. It isn’t always realistic or healthy. Just like a romantic relationship, a friendship can be dysfunctional, codependent, and even dangerous.

# Be honest

Making up an excuse in this instance won’t do you any good. No matter your reasoning for ending the friendship, this person probably knows you well and will know if you’re lying. Be honest.

Ease into a conversation about how your friendship has been affecting you. Don’t blame them or point fingers, but explain that you feel like your friendship isn’t what it used to be.

# Be open to their side

Let them give their opinion. Let them ask you questions. Just like during a romance break up, closure can help sort things out. Losing a friend, no matter how problematic is hard, getting answers can help process that pain.

# Thank them

Let them know how much you appreciate the good parts of your relationship. You will always have a bond and a past. Thank them for everything you have shared when you end things.

Make sure they know you aren’t erasing them from you life but doing what is best for both of you moving forward.

# Suggest a break

Suggest a break. Instead of a full-on break up with a friend, let them know you need time apart. Maybe you spend too much time together and need space. Be open to reconnecting and catching up when you are both in a healthier headspace.

# Let it be

Not everyone will take this news well. A break up with a friend can be worse than a break up with a lover. Friendships can run deeper and matter more. If you suggest the idea to a friend things haven’t been going well with, and they react badly, let them.

They may start drama or retaliate. Maybe they spread rumors. These things happen. This sort of a reaction makes sense because they are likely hurt, but it also shows that distancing yourself from them was a smart move.