By Laura Snyder

Sometimes you're forced into a break-up with a perfectly nice person whose company you enjoy, who doesn't chew with their mouth open, and who doesn't, for example, collect their own toenail clippings. Sometimes, you just have to end it when this otherwise perfect date just isn't getting the lifetime nod of approval.

If your instincts are telling you this is one good thing that must come to an end, try our advice for losing Mr. or Miss Not Quite Right without losing your sanity.

Don't Put It Off

There are all kinds of reasons for postponing the evil-doing - guilt, fear of facing the single life again, worry that you'll ruin your good karma, dread that you'll regret it, annoyance that you've invested so much energy. But, look at the big picture and you'll realize you're doing both of yourselves a favor by giving yourselves the opportunity to meet Mr. or Miss Exactly Right.

Be Honest

So, you're humming that Nick Lowe tune, resolute that you're being cruel to be kind. Don't bungle the execution. When it comes to ending it with someone who hasn't broken your heart, honesty really is the best policy. Explain - emphatically, even - that it's difficult for you to bring this up, since you don't want to cause any pain, but be firm that it's just not working. And really, if it's not working for you, on some level, it's probably not working for them either.

Get Over It..and Don't Give In

You really didn't think that was the hard part did you? Sadly, it doesn't get any easier just yet. Recognize right now that you're going to miss your Mr./Miss Wrong and immediately focus on all the great things you had. Give yourself time to mourn the loss of the relationship. And that means no post-breakup sex and no desperate plans to stay pals, at least at first.

Don't Doubt Yourself

There will certainly be days when you think you made a horrific mistake (it'll probably be when you're spending your third Friday night in a row in front of the television). Exercise discipline and wait out that perfect partner.