Breaking hearts is a tough reality of dating and should be tackled with as much respect and maturity as possible. If you are in a relationship and have tried everything from counseling to self help books with no avail, then maybe it is time to throw in the towel.

Always host a break up in person whether you've been dating a week or decades. Never end a relationship by phone, during a fight or through someone else. Acting out never works, don't cheat or ignore your partner in the hopes of your behavior ending the relationship for you. If you share common friends never confide in them about the breakup beforehand, there's no need to test where your friends' loyalties lie. Confrontations are hard but you owe the person an explanation so be prepared for an array of emotions.

Before the confrontation think about the reasons for ending your relationship so you can clearly express them to your partner. When initiating a breakup let your partner know, in as fair a way as possible, that your needs aren't being met. Give your partner the closure they need by answering any questions they might have. Once you've delivered the news and things have come to an untimely demise, remove yourself from the situation and wish them well. Avoid the clichés of asking for gifts back that you have given or for money that is owed you. Don't leave any "hope signals" such as giving the old "we'll still be friends" routine. Even if you do hope to continue a friendship you should leave that ball in their court.

When all is said and done, breathe a sigh of relief in knowing that you handled your breakup to the best of your abilities and move forward with your love life.

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