7 reasons to break up with someone — even if you love them

Deciding to break up with someone is rarely easy. It’s made even harder when you are breaking up with someone you love. No matter what your friends or family tell you, ending it with a significant other only comes when you realize that this person is more of a negative than a positive in your life.

Looking at the big picture and how your partner impacts youcan allow you to make a wise and thought out decision. While it may be hard to see at the time, there are quite a few reasons to break up with someone even if you love them.

Please note that some of these reasons vary in severity and some could indicate a pattern of abuse. If you or someone you know is in an abusive relationship please seek help or call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233.

1. You can’t trust them.

No matter how much you love someone, you need to be able to trust them. Trust is absolutely paramount in a relationship.

According to a study from Northwestern University and Redeemer University College in Ontario, Canada, those who have trust their partners are more likely to be in long-term and successful relationships, proving just how important that trust is. 

If they keep giving you reasons to second guess their motives or respect for you, then it’s time to end it.

2. They are emotionally manipulative.

From telling you that every argument is your fault to acting as if they can’t live without you, an emotionally manipulative partner brings down your self-worth and leaves you relying on them.

"Healthy social influence occurs between most people, and is part of the give and take of constructive relationships," Preston Ni M.S.B.A., wrote in Psychology Today. "In psychological manipulation, one person is used for the benefit of another. The manipulator deliberately creates an imbalance of power and exploits the victim to serve his or her agenda."

3. They isolate you from your friends.

Does your significant other get mad when you choose to hang out with your friends and not them? Do they speak negatively of others in your life? This tactic leaves you isolated from other support in your life and makes you rely more heavily on them, which can be a sign things are toxic.

If someone really cares about you in a healthy way then they’ll want you to have a well-rounded support system and be close with your friends and family.