How to do: Write a Dear John Letter
Breaking up with someone is generally best done in person. But if that's not possible, make sure you carefully consider the words you commit to paper.
Instructions Step 1 Just sign your name at the end. Writing 'love' may make them think there's still hope.
Step 2 Hold on to it for a few days, unsealed, so you can re-read it several times before mailing it. Did You Know:
'Dear John' was coined during World War II to refer to the break-up letters that U.S. soldiers received. Step 3 Be clear that the relationship is over. Don't say 'we can still be friends' if you don't mean it. Quick Tip:
If you've met someone you like better, keep it to yourself: there is no reason to dump and humiliate your soon-to-be ex. Quick Tip:
Make sure your penmanship is legible; don't make them struggle to determine whether you're telling them it's 'over' or calling them your 'lover.' Step 4 Keep it simple. The fact that you're breaking up with them says it all; there's no point in enumerating their faults.
Step 5 Leave others out of it; the decision to break up should be framed as yours alone, and the Dear John letter shouldn't refer to anyone but you and the person you're breaking up with.
Step 6 Feel free to write drafts of the Dear John letter on a computer or other electronic device, but handwrite the final version.