Top 5 Tips to Break Up with Your Boyfriend before College

So you’re college bound and want to breakup with your high school boyfriend, but you’re not sure how to do it. It’s often hard to sit people down and give them bad news, and some less then brave souls may choose to use technology to bring the sad news. One option is to change your Facebook status from in a relationship to single. That would certainly drive home the point. Or, send a text to your boyfriend’s phone. Something like, “I’m heading for greener pastures, and the idea of a sophomoric fling is on the horizon.” A text like that would certainly raise the red flag that a breakup is eminent.

Letter. There’s always the option of the proverbial Dear John letter. Not as fast as a text or Facebook change, it’s an old fashioned strategy that also reeks of cowardice, but will accomplish the mission. You can write a synopsis of the grand times you’ve had together and how you will always cherish them as fond memories. You can outline how wonderful the person is and then write the reasons why this person no longer fits the bill. This is kind of a backhanded compliment, but it works every time. After all, you do want to remain friends as you may bump into your ex at the mall in the future.

In person. Then again, you can always breakup with your boyfriend in person. However, don’t do it in a romantic restaurant over a candlelit dinner. Remember in “Legally Blonde” when Mr. Right broke up with Reese Witherspoon. The shock and tears on her face was just publicly embarrassing. In addition, the romantic atmosphere of a candlelit dinner sets the soon-to-be ex up for one unexpected dump. It’s just plain misleading and cruel.

Privately. If you choose to break up with your boyfriend in person, a non-public place is the most humane. Make sure he has a mode of transportation for a quick exit. However, if he lives close, a pair of working legs will do. You can always start the conversation with, “We need to talk.” Those four quick words will cut to the chase, and your boyfriend will certainly be forewarned as to what’s coming next. Be prepared to return any expensive Tiffany jewelry or engagement ring to your ex. The diva in you may want to keep these goodies, but giving these tokens back is the right thing to do. So give it up.

Don't drag it out. When breaking up with your boyfriend in person, be succinct and don’t drag things out. On the other hand, don’t let him try to change your mind or make you feel guilty. All in love is fair, and that is the way it works. Just be kind and understanding as your ex may need a moment to regain his composure. Remember, even though you are heading for greener pastures, you never know what the future may hold. It could very well be that you will meet Mr. Right on campus, but end up as Ms. Wrong.

About the Author
Tammi Jenkins is a writer for MyCollegesandCareers.com. My Colleges and Careers can help you choose your degree to finding online master’s degree programs.