Not all friendships bring joy into our lives. In fact, you may know someone that brings more drama to your life than happiness. Your friend may even do things that hurt you. This is what’s know as a toxic friendship. Is it possible to continue these friendships without being hurt? It really depends on the friend. Here are five tips for dealing with toxic friendships.
Make the Person Aware of Her Actions
Some people may not be aware that what they’re doing is hurtful. For example, they may not realize that they do all the talking, asking for help, etc. Try to sit down with your friend and point out whatever problem she is creating. Be aware that some people may not be able to change their habits and you may have to rethink your friendship.
Choose Activities That Help Avoid the Problem
Another way to avoid problems your friend may cause is to choose activities that may prevent them. For example, if your friend is always trying to pry information from you to share with everyone, go to the movies where talking isn’t appropriate.
Share Less
If your friend shares your secrets with everyone or uses information to stab you in the back, simply share less with her. This may mean spending less time together, choosing to meet for activities that require little talking or simply refusing to share anything important with her.
Spend Time with Other Friends More Often
Remember that this friend isn’t your only friend. If you’re tired of her antics or just need less of them, spend more time with your other friends. It may even be a way to get it through to your friend that you are tired of the way she acts. Eventually she’ll get the point and it may be easier for her to quit her bad habits or for you to end the friendship.
End the Friendship
It some cases, your only course of action is to end the friendship. Some people refuse to change or refuse to admit they have a problem. Either way, a friendship should not be one sided or hurtful. Sometimes it’s best just to walk away and find people that bring joy to your life rather than misery.
Sometimes you may choose to ignore the problems that toxic friendships cause, but remember that you may be able to change those habits by talking to your friend, sharing less or by simply walking away.
About the Author: Giovanna Dawe is an EKG techician and nursing student who knows first-hand that not everyone you meet will become a close friend. She’s extra-cautious about developing close friendships with people she does not know very well – especially in school.
