Im(22F) ending my 6 year relationship with my boyfriend(22M)

(22F) in a relationship with my boyfriend (22M). We’ve been for 6 years. From early on, I took the relationship seriously ; I dated with the idea that it could lead to marriage. So I put in the effort, stayed loyal, and gave the relationship multiple chances to grow.

But over the past 2 years, I’ve started to realize we might not be right for each other. We’re opposites in how we think, act, and approach life. He’s quick to respond negatively to almost everything; even before trying something or hearing it out. I try to stay open and positive, and while I hoped our differences would balance each other out, it’s mostly felt draining.

For the past 1.5 years or so, I’ve had a growing feeling that this just isn’t worth it anymore. I stuck around because I didn’t want to walk away from something I’ve invested years into, but now I’m not so sure that was the right call.

I also express care through food. I love cooking, baking, and often invite him over for lunch or dinner. And not to sound full of myself, but my food is good. Still, he rarely compliments it or has much to say about it. I’ve tried to understand, maybe he’s dealing with something internally, or maybe his job is draining him. But this has been going on for a long time now, and it’s starting to feel like I’m putting in effort that goes unnoticed.

He’s never been the romantic type, he told me that early on. He does show love in small ways, like bringing food or spending time together, and I appreciate that. I tried to be fulfilled with that. I really did. I kept telling myself, “This is just his way of showing love.” But over time, I started asking myself: if I can learn to understand and adapt to his love language, why can’t he do the same for mine?

He doesn’t ask how my day went or show much interest in the things I’m doing. His humor is mostly sarcasm, and at times it gets rude. I’ve mentioned how it makes me feel, but his response is always, “That’s just how I am with my family.” Which might be true but our families are completely different. His is more closed off, sarcastic, and keeps to themselves. Mine is warm, open, and expressive. I’ve tried to explain that, but nothing really changed.

Another thing that’s bothered me is how he acts around my family. He barely talks, keeps to himself, and honestly always seems just shy and distant. It creates an awkward vibe, and I can tell my family notices too.

On top of all that, he’s extremely pessimistic. No matter what I say an idea, a plan, even something light, he finds a negative angle to respond with. It’s mentally exhausting, and it’s made me stop sharing things altogether.

I don’t think love alone is enough anymore. A relationship needs emotional effort, communication, and real interest in each other’s lives. And I just don’t feel like I’m getting that.

So I’ve made the decision to leave.