Unfortunately, no matter how hard you try, sometimes things just don't work out. Obviously, if you still think things can work keep trying, but if you're constantly unhappy, perhaps it's time to let go.

How do you know when it's time to break up? You're not happy anymore. You don't want to be with him or her, and when you are you feel uncomfortable-- like something isn't right.

You may feel like you "owe" your boyfriend or girlfriend something, but what you really owe them is your honesty. Even if you're with the greatest person in the world, if you're unhappy when you're with him or her, eventually he or she will catch on, and that you were unhappy and still stayed will hurt the person more in the long run. Don't think you're doing anyone a favor; you're only hurting both of you more.

If there's someone else in the picture-- well, take it easy for your ex's sake (assuming your ex didn't cheat on you).

Now generally, breakups are not the violent "I hate you and hope I never see you again" that we so often see on television-- thankfully, because those are the worst kind. However, most breakups are painful.

If you struggle, you will hurt more. If you accept that it's going to hurt, it won't hurt so much. And, in the long run, if you're unhappy, breaking up is for the best.