Linda writes:

I'm 30 years old and I'm looking for some breakup advice. I've been with my boyfriend for 10 years. He wants to marry me. We have been through and worked through a lot over the years and he is having a really hard time at the moment..work, money etc. We are getting on fine, he's my best friend and I love him BUT I don't want to be with him anymore. HOW ON EARTH CAN I DO THIS..I'm broke up thinking about it for the past year but my mind is made up.

More than anything I dont want to hurt him.

MR. GOODADVICE RESPONDS:

There is simply no easy way to break someone's heart. If someone has been good to you for ten years then they deserve to be told the truth. Tell him that you don't want to get married. Tell him you are ready to end your relationship. Of course this will be difficult, but in the end it will save both of you alot of unhappiness.

Your happiness must be your first concern. As long as you handle this situation in an adult fashion you shouldn't feel guilt about making the decision that is in your best interest. By pursuing your happiness, you will free you boyfriend to move on and perhaps find someone who will want to be with him. As things stand now, he is with you and you don't want him. There is nothing worse then being in love with someone who doesn't feel the same way towards you. Do him a favor and set him free!