How to End a Friendship by Email

People change and relationships grow apart. When you've reached the point where ending a friendship is the only option you have, an email can effectively express your feelings. Maybe you're afraid of your friend's reaction; maybe you live miles apart or perhaps you just express yourself better in writing.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Consider your decision carefully. Once you send the email, you will end a friendship. If there is even the slightest chance you want to continue the relationship, stop before you hit "Send."

2. Tell the other person why you are ending the friendship in a mature manner. Instead of making accusations, explain your feelings. If the other person is guilty of stealing your boyfriend or girlfriend, tell them how you felt betrayed and that you can no longer continue in a relationship without trust.

3. Control your words. When you're angry, it's easy to say things you'll regret later. Name calling is inappropriate and counter productive. You want to end a friendship, not stir up trouble.

4. Keep it short. While you need to detail the reasons behind your decision, don't write a saga. Stay on topic. If you write about other things, the recipient may feel you're still trying to confide in her, despite your claim of wanting to end the friendship.

5. Stay tightlipped around others. Talking negatively about your ex-friend might make you feel better, but treat him in the same way you want to be treated. Besides, trashing an old friend will cause new friends to distrust you; fearing that one day you may speak of them in the same manner.

Tips & Warnings

• Nothing you send by email is secure. The recipient can print it out and show others. If you make threats, a judge can subpoena the email and charge you with harassment. Don't write things you don't want the world to know.