Is there a perfect time to end a relationship? M44/F42
I may just be thinking out loud and already know the answer but I thought I could put myself out into the online world to be judged (or hopefully, understood) by a few hundred strangers 😋 I’ve (44M) been in a relationship for a little over two years and I know we’re at a stage where we aren’t compatible long term. She’s (42F) amazing but our priorities in a relationship differ. I’ve been broken up with in the past and I know being in that position hurts no matter how kind and considerate your partner tries to be. My question is the timing.
I’ve spent a week tormenting myself about when to do it so I stop wasting both our time and allow her to find someone incredible who checks all her boxes. She’s a mom to an amazing kid and her ex wasn’t the best at making Mother’s Day special. I made sure that changed this year and took her kid to buy flowers, a gift, etc but now it’s Mother’s Day weekend and it seems far too hurtful to end a relationship on a day like this.
I know the first response will be to simply wait a few days and have the conversation. However, next weekend is also her birthday. She loves her birthday and I’d hate the idea of ruining it. But, is it just as hurtful to kind of fake my way through the weekend only to finally end this relationship the week after? I’ve overthought this so much, my mind is spinning. I don’t mind if I come out the villain on the other side but I’d like to try and minimize the hurt she feels as best I can. Not looking for any sympathy, more hoping for anyone who’s shared a similar experience in the past on either side. Thanks!