Article Options

Presentation View
Teaching Resources

Ask Choices: Your Burning Questions, Answered

Is It OK to Break Up With a Friend?

Dear Choices,

A friend and I are growing apart. I feel guilty about not wanting to spend time with my friend, but we just don’t have fun anymore. What should I do?

Signed, Moving On in Minneapolis

Dear Moving On, 

Some friendships last a lifetime. Others, not so long. It’s fine to expand or change your social group. Just make sure you do so in a way that doesn’t cause pain to your friend (or you). Try following the tips below.

Love, Choices

1. Be Honest  

Acknowledge the change. Say something like, “I know we’re not as close as before, but I’m grateful for our friendship.”

2. Don't Ghost

You should still be friendly even if you’re not BFFs. Say hi when you see your old friend, and ask how they’re doing. 

3. Be Kind

Don’t bad-mouth your former friend to others. Even if things about them irritated you, keep them to yourself. 

Social-Emotional Learning
Relationships
Text-to-Speech