Breaking up sucks.
It is one of the most difficult things to go through.
Yet somehow we still manage to make it harder than what it could be otherwise.
To make things easier on everyone involved, there are specific "break up rules" which should be followed.
Rules for Breaking Up

1. Think in depth about the decision.
   Is it really what you want? Is it what is best for you? Are you truly unhappy or simply having an unhappy moment? Have you tried to work your problems out? Knowing these answers will help you make the right decision and save the both of you a lot of heartache.
   
2. Don't reverse your decision.
   You made it for a reason, so don't take it suddenly because you miss the person.
   If a month or two goes by and you still miss them, then you can take the steps towards repairing the relationship.
   However, don't take it back the next day; the rollercoaster ride of emotion is never something you should get involved in.
   
3. Think about what you will say.
   Don't go into the conversation without knowing what to talk about.
   Think about what you will say and, most importantly, speak from your heart.
   
4. Don't avoid the subject at hand.
   Get to the point! Don't talk about your day first or ask how the other person is.
   Start talking about what you want.
   
5. Stay calm.
   Don't cry.
   Don't be upset.
   Be as calm as possible and talk about how you feel.
   This is the best way to do it without becoming too emotional or your partner not completely understanding what is happening.
   
6. Talk your feelings through.
   State why you want to break up.
   Don't dance around the subject.
   If you aren't happy, tell your partner why you aren't happy.
   However, try not to be harsh.
   Be simple.
   Be quick.
   And most of all, be thorough.
   
7. Do it in person.
   On the phone, by email, or through SMS is the easy way out.
   Do it in person.
   This way the person knows it isn't a joke and won't completely find you to be a word with "hole" on the end.
   

Nonetheless, there are exceptions to everything.
If your boyfriend or girlfriend are abusive in any way (emotionally or physically) you may want to handle the break up a bit differently (such as calling the police or avoiding them forever).
These are rules that are meant to be broken, but only broken in the rare instances of need.
If you are simply not willing to go through with this advice, I suggest at least speaking from your heart.
Whether it be good or bad, speaking from your heart is always the best choice when it comes to break ups no matter what.
Your partner may not realize it at the time, but it is what is best for them as well as you.
In short, think about your decision, stay calm, be thorough, and do it in person.
These simple guidelines will save both of you a lot of heartache and possible trouble in the future.