A study has uncovered the typical causes for a relationship ending, such as one partner disliking the other’s TV and film preferences, their poor fashion choices, or their excessive use of emojis in texts. The survey, which questioned 2,000 adults who have been in a relationship, was commissioned by the free streaming service Freely and discovered a variety of unique reasons for breaking up with a partner.
Some of the more peculiar reasons for ending a relationship included disliking the other person’s sports team or their food preferences, having incompatible star signs or being allergic to a former partner’s pet. One individual even confessed they had to part ways with an ex due to their excessive snoring.
Other popular reasons cited were the timeless “it’s not you, it’s me” excuse, suggesting an unwillingness to commit to a serious relationship.
A representative for Freely commented: “Breaking up is never easy – whether it’s with a partner, a job or even a subscription. Many of us stick with things longer than we should, whether out of habit or fear of change. “But sometimes the best thing we can do is be honest with ourselves and take that step – especially when it’s no longer giving us what we need.
“This research shows we’re all guilty of hanging on for the wrong reasons, even when the writing’s on the wall.”
A significant 70% admitted that ending a relationship is one of the most daunting experiences in life, and while 55% have remained in a relationship longer than necessary in the hope that it would improve, many stay to avoid hurting the other person’s feelings.
Although a whopping 81% advised others to break the news in person, one in 10 confessed they would simply ghost the person they intended to end things with.
The research also discovered that these breakup challenges weren’t limited to romantic relationships; as 22% of adults who have subscriptions admit having strong loyalties to certain services they’d struggle to part with.
Many individuals confessed they found it challenging to cancel subscription services due to providers’ persistent questioning and guilt-tripping tactics.
Over a quarter of people opt for the path of least resistance, continuing to pay for subscriptions such as streaming or television services, even though they no longer use them. Consequently, an average of up to £480 is spent annually on these unused services.
Are you a break-up beginner or an absolute master? This quiz will question your approach to different situations in life – revealing whether you’re an expert negotiator or a procrastinator.
A spokesperson for Freely commented: “It’s funny how breaking up with a subscription can feel just as dramatic as ending a relationship – complete with guilt trips, clingy prompts, and the odd emotional farewell. “But when something no longer fits your lifestyle or delivers what you need, it’s natural to start looking elsewhere.
“There’s plenty more TV out there – and it’s clear that simplicity, flexibility and value are what people are really after. Some options won’t cost you a thing or make you question your life choices.”
