The end: how to break up

You had a crush on him for months before he finally asked you out. Your friends thought that you were the perfect couple. You two became inseparable and you couldn't imagine yourself without him.

Now something has changed and you can't imagine your life with him. You don't think that you love him anymore. Hard as it is to believe, you want out of the relationship you worked so hard to get into. Read on to learn how to break up with him.

How to break up a relationship—even one that has been a struggle—can be difficult and painful. Think about what you want to do.

How to break up: Can you work it out?

Evaluate what makes you unhappy about the relationship. Once you figure out what's wrong, you can decide if you want to fix it or end it. Some problems can be worked out—like that you want to spend more time with your friends. Other problems can't be solved—like he's insanely jealous.

How to break up: A no-go

If you decide that you want to end it, you'll have to talk to your boyfriend. Plan when and how you're going to talk to him. If you're really mad at him (say you found out he made out with your friend), it's best to wait until you calm down.

How to break up: Face the music

Although you could break up on the phone or through email, talking to him in person is kinder and more respectful. Meet in a quiet place where you won't be interrupted. Don't break up with him at a party or in a crowded restaurant. Being part of a humiliating scene is only cool on television, if at all.

How to break up: The truth will set you free

Be honest and direct. Be clear that you want to end the relationship. Don't send him mixed messages that keep him holding out hope. There's no need to blame anyone or explain yourself. Remember that this is someone you cared about once, and although you think he's a jerk right now, he's still a person with feelings.

How to break up: Moving on

Ending the relationship to date another guy can be tricky. If your boyfriend knows the guy, you might want to tell him. It may hurt him more now, but it could save him the embarrassment of finding out from friends. If he doesn't know the guy, you don't need to tell him. Your relationship is over and who you see is not really his business.