The Signs of Good and Bad Friendships
A few days ago was national friendship day! There are few things as important and pleasurable in life as a great friendship. But as we navigate the different chapters of our lives, we’re more than likely to find ourselves in a bad friendship or two. It can be challenging at times to know what differentiates a good friendship from a bad one, and how do you know when it’s time to end it for good? There’s no one answer to these questions, every relationship in life is different and nuanced from person to person. But, there’s general lenses you can look at your friendships with to see if they lean more good or bad if you’re having any doubts.
Signs of a good friendship:
Trust: You can confide in eachother without fear of judgment or betrayal.
Support: Your friends are there for you when you need it and vice versa. You should both be there for eachother through the good and the bad, not just when it’s convenient
Respect: There should be mutual respect in a friendship. No one should be pushing anyone to do something they’re not comfortable with and everyone's opinions, feelings, and boundaries are considered valid.
Forgiveness: People are bound to make mistakes in life and their relationships. A good friend doesn't hold things over your head, forgive mistakes and misunderstandings, and want to work through conflict maturely.
Signs of a bad friendship:
One-Sided Effort: If you’re consistently the only person reaching out and putting effort into the relationship, it could be a red flag.
Competitive or Jealous Behavior: If your friend is constantly trying to one-up you or it seems they’re just never happy for you, they may not have your best interests at heart.
Feeling Drained: It’s normal to feel tired after a long day or socializing or a trip with friends, but if you’re constantly feeling exhausted and unfulfilled after hanging out with friends, you might be friends with the wrong people.
Guilt Tripping: Friends who make you feel bad if you’re busy or say “no” to plans or for following your own morals and values are not people who care about you.
How to know when it’s time to end a friendship:
Typically, if any and or more than one of the latter is persistent in a friendship, it might be time to take a second look at if the relationship still suits and serves you. A few things to consider when wondering if it’s time it end a friendship include:
Breach of trust
Different values and life goals
Unhealthy patterns
Consistent unresolved conflict
If you do decide to end a friendship, go about it in an honest and respectful manner. You don’t necessarily need to make a new enemy because you’re losing a friend. But if you’re really not sure where you’re at in a friendship, talking to an outside party can be extremely helpful. Book your free consultation with Mayra today to see how she can help you navigate your relationships!