I want to break up with a boy I’ve been dating, but I don’t want to do it just before his birthday. Help!

Don’t worry, says our elder. It’s only been two and a half weeks — hardly a relationship!

Dear EWC

I’ve been dating this guy for around two and a half weeks and I don’t feel anything. This is where I’d say break up with him, but it’s not this simple. His birthday is this week and I don’t wanna just dump him right before his birthday, but at the same time, this relationship is not what I want. I really need some advice. Thanks!

Dayle replies

I don’t think dating for two and a half weeks is really a relationship. It’s more like testing the situation to see if the two of you are compatible. You’ve already decided you aren’t. The simplest thing is, if he asks you to go out on his birthday, say no that you are busy. Be kind by saying something like, “I’m sure you’ll find something else fun to do that day/evening, but I just can’t be with you.” Then whenever he asks you out after that, just keep saying no. He’ll either give up right away or want to know why it’s no, and then you can let him know that it just doesn’t seem to be working for you or that you’ve decided being in a relationship right now isn’t the right thing for you. Good luck!

Letter #: 440555
Category: Dating/Relationship