Ask Dali Mama

DEAR DALI MAMA:

What is the best way to break up with a girlfriend? I love her still but know I’m just not the right guy for her.

–Wondering (Canada)

DEAR WONDERING:

Well, it kind of depends on factors like how long you’ve been dating and your girlfriend’s personality, but I would suggest a basic conversation in person in a neutral environment telling her you love her but you feel you two are just not compatible. I would keep it really basic unless she asks for specifics. You don’t mention a specific reason you feel you’re not the right guy for her, but maybe you could say, if she asks, “I just feel I’m not the right guy for you” or maybe “I just feel we’re not the right combination for each other even though I love you.”

Kudos for putting thought into how to do this in a compassionate and loving way.