How to Walk Away from a Deadbeat Relationship with Grace

At some point in life, we're all faced with it - the decision to move on, to separate, to disengage and realign ourselves with our own best interest. Whether walking away from an impossible boss, a selfish lover or a manipulative business partner, there's no easy way to say "this just isn't working for me".

As difficult as it may be, taking the first step to liberate yourself from a toxic relationship can provide just the clarity you need to put many other things in perspective. In everyday life we're faced with constant challenges, but making smart decisions about your personal relationships makes the course that much easier to travel. Believe it or not, there is a direct relationship between your happiness and the quality of relationships in which you are involved. If you find yourself in a relationship where you constantly feel smothered, disrespected or unappreciated, it eventually takes a toll on how you feel about yourself.

Once you've come to terms with the fact that you are better off walking away, why not make your last act a class act? Here are a few simple steps to follow to spare hard feelings and bow out gracefully when farewell is your final answer:

1.) Do it in Person. Resist the urge to e-break-it-off. Using modern technology makes for sweet and simple communication but is a completely insensitive way to exit a relationship. Select an appropriate setting and speak face to face.

2.) Give Them a Sandwich. Relationship experts suggest the "sandwich" approach to breaking things off. Highlight the positive at the start and finiish of the conversation, sandwiching the negative in the middle. Ex: "I've grown as a person by working with you. You're energetic, spontaneous, and charismatic. I just don't see us moving forward together because our visions are too different. You deserve a partner who has similar goals as you."

3.) Prepare for Reaction. Goodbye isn't easy to say, but its twice as difficult to hear. Stay calm if the reaction is emotional. Focus on your breathing to keep you from having an emotional response to the outburst. Your verdict is already in - remain level headed and let them have their say.

4.) Time for Reflection. The tough part is over, but only if you're wiser now. Remember, there's a time, place and season for everything. Take a moment to reflect on the lesson you learned as a result of this relationship. Kudos for deciding to Step-In-Style!