Original post: https://www.reddit.com/r/dating_advice/s/t6hZd1A24l
Upon reviewing the comments, I realized I couldn't leave it at just "no chemistry," so I sent a follow-up text to be closer to the truth without being cruel.
I told her that the real reason was that our "personal care habits were different". I framed it as my own fault, explaining that I’ve become very "dogmatic” regarding that, and I didn't want to be the partner who tries to change her to fit my strict way of living.
I think mentioning "personal care habits" was the clearest way to hint at the hygiene issue without destroying her self-esteem. It feels better to label it a lifestyle incompatibility rather than a lie.
On the other hand I feel very upset with some regrets about my way of handling this tbh. I just can’t help myself thinking whether it could have been fixed without a breakup or it was just impossible to change hygiene habits of a 28-year-old girl.
Thanks for the support, everyone.