Friends can inspire you, and motivate you. How can you identify though when something is going wrong and you need to stage a break-up with this friend?
Maybe your friend makes you feel powerless and unworthy, or they could be the ones to bring you up, just in all the wrong ways.
Below are some telltale signs of friendship trouble and how you can turn things around.
1. You feel pressure
Nobody has the right to pressure you into something you don’t want to do, whether it be smoking, attending a party or talking to a particular guy. The next time you find yourself in this situation and are feeling the pressure, make eye contact and say “No” with authority. Look for positive role models around you, or online. Follow their example and their values, and start seeking a different tribe to hang out with.
2. They make you feel unworthy
You need to understand the difference between negative comments and friends who spend time criticising you. Stay away from negative people, they have a problem for every solution. Friends will not have you question your worth or have you believe that their excessive criticism is just “constructive”. Try and talk to them about the impact their comments are having on you, their response will tell you everything. If they are not willing to listen to you, then they are really not worth it.
3. It is a one-way street
Reevaluate where you stand if you are putting more time and energy into a relationship, than your friend. If your friend cancels every time you make plans or just finds excuses then start putting your energy elsewhere. Communication is the key to all healthy and happy relationships, so talk to them about how you would like to be treated differently.
4. They get jealous
Insecurity is the root of jealousy, some envy can also stem from wanting attention though. Jealous friends can usually be found posting selfies and thriving off likes and followers. Competition can arise too, when one friend starts doing really well in life. True friends will always be happy for your accomplishments, and make you feel loved rather than guilty.
