Getting dumped is never fun, but let’s face it, being the one who ends the relationship can be just as difficult. It’s hard to walk away from something you’ve invested time in—not to mention money. But these problems aren’t just limited to fairytales that don’t end in “happily ever after.” Businesses have the same relationship woes, and can feel deflated when they aren’t getting what they need from their current operating system. If this is the case, it may be time to call it quits. Chances are you and the old OS have been through a lot together—crashes, freezes, support issues—but rather than bring you closer together, these issues are likely wearing you down and resulting in more rebooting than computing. Windows 7 was released in October and has received rave reviews all around. Sure, breaking up with the OS will take some time and may not be easy, but it will be well worth it once you find enhanced compatibility and special features waiting to be enjoyed with Windows 7. Symantec has come up with a list of tips to help you avoid the drama, tears, and shame that so often accompany breakups. Evaluate the relationship. At some point the quality of the relationship you have with your operating system needs to be assessed. Are you still compatible? Is it giving you the support you need? Do you find yourself eyeing other operating systems? If you’re not getting what you need from your operating system, it’s probably time to move on. Make a plan for “the big break.” Tackling a breakup without a plan is never a good idea. You may veer off course and forget why you decided to end the relationship in the first place, which can only prolong the breakup process. Don’t make the process more painful than it needs to be. Clearly define what you have and identify the potential risks, along with costs for hardware, applications and security. Gather necessary resources, formulate a plan of attack and stick with it to keep yourself on track for efficient hassle-free migration. Use your “circle of trust” as a sounding board. Breakups can be tough, but remember that you’re not alone. Talk to others for support and advice on how to manage yours. Build a taskforce of different departments and consult with partners who can act as a pilot test for the migration. Teambuilding an inner circle can work out all the bugs and kinks as you prepare to end your old relationship and start fresh with Windows 7. Ditch the baggage. The last thing anyone wants to take with them from a relationship is baggage, so make a clean break. Hanging on to mementos that remind you of the old relationship can stunt your ability to move on. Your Windows 7 migration will go more smoothly once unnecessary files of the past are eliminated. Look at your storage buildup and current set of desktop images and ditch duplicate or dated files that you don’t need to take with you to the next operating system. When imaging computers during the migration, it will be much easier to have a consolidated list. Leaving the excess baggage in the past ensures a smooth and clean break. Take what’s yours. There’s nothing worse than realizing you left your favorite sweatshirt or Star Wars trilogy DVD collection at your ex’s place after the breakup is finalized. If unclaimed before cutting bait, you’ll likely never see those prized items again. Make sure all the essential files and applications you want on your new operating system are flagged and prepared to make the transition. Get your key back or change your locks. You never know if a slighted ex will use your key to get back at you.Similarly, viruses can find an open door in a system if it’s vulnerable during migration. Enlist the help of a comprehensive security solution to stay ahead of hackers and malware. Multiple layers of protection will guard against security threats and pesky creepers trying to compromise your personal security. Relationship status: “It’s complicated.” Breakups typically affect more than just the two people in the relationship. Friends, family and others involved in your network will feel the change as well. When leaving your operating system, remember to notify other people that may be affected by the migration. If you’re migrating a company network, notify coworkers and key decision makers and work closely with them throughout the process. Keep everyone involved and current on the changes so they aren’t caught off guard when they see you with a sleek, new interface and fancy toolbar. Timing is everything. There’s nothing worse than breaking up right before the holidays or a special occasion. Selecting the right time is essential for a stress-free breakup with your operating system. Avoid foreseeable busy periods where a disruption or change could hinder your performance and efficiency. Remember, you have a lot of history with (and many applications that are compatible with) this operating system, so you can’t just say you’re ending it and walk away. When it’s over, it’s over. Breaking up with your operating system isn’t like “taking a break” or taking some “time to think about the relationship.” When it’s time to say goodbye, there’s no looking back. When you know there is something better out there for you, it’s time to cut ties and look forward to the relationship that awaits with Windows 7. Keep the momentum going until the final desktop has been migrated. Click here to see a slideshow of this advice.