Introduction
With friends around, our lives become more enjoyable, satisfying, and meaningful. They are supportive, motivating us to pursue our dreams, teaching us to be better people, and encourage us when we are depressed. Not all friendships bring positive effects and stay permanent that way. Some of them may even be toxic. You could fall victim to toxic friendships if you have any kind of frenemies in your life:
Criticizer
This type is mean and controlling.
You can’t be yourself around him. He constantly criticizes you, puts you down, and allows you to drown in self-doubt. He often makes jabs in the form of cracking jokes. Jokes may be harmless occasionally. However, if he regularly puts you down and you feel miserable, constantly criticized in a friendship, you will become tired of having to defend yourself against his attacks.
Inform him if his insults hurt you. A sincere friend will apologize and stop this behavior.
Promise Breaker
This type does not keep his promises and expects everything from you.
He requests your assistance and then cancels at the last minute. It’s acceptable if people break their promises for understandable reasons. However, if you are stood up every time, it will be difficult to trust him again and maintain your friendship.
Keep in mind that true friends value each other’s time and consideration and are grateful for others’ help.
Competitor
This type always thinks about competing in any situation.
An occasional friendly competition is fine, but this type turns friendship into rivalry to see who can outdo the other. He won’t congratulate or praise you for your success or good news. Instead, he would endlessly brag about his achievements.
Remember that true friends won’t keep track of wins and losses, but will instead enjoy and celebrate each other’s successes. Even if jealousy exists, it is usually accompanied by happiness, pride, and excitement over a friend’s success.
Gossiper
This type likes talking about others in the back and sharing people’s secrets with others in private.
He is always up to date, gossips and spreads rumors. He probably talks about you as well, since he talks about others. And, he won’t protect your secrets. So be cautious about what you say to him. He is dangerous because his actions can harm your integrity and reputation.
Genuine friends will be delighted to be one of your confidants, treat your secrets as their own and will not disappoint you if you decide to tell them your secrets.
Conclusion
There are many other types of toxic friendships that aren’t covered here. However, if you are stressed, uneasy, and self-doubting, as well as emotionally hurt, unfulfilled, and unsupported by your friends, they are signs of toxic friendships. Consider ending them.
Take some time and space for yourself, and set boundaries. Then wait until you’ve processed your feelings regarding your friendship to see if you feel any better. If you’ve decided to end the friendship, organize your thoughts, and explain the reasons calmly and firmly.
Content Writer by Win Win Maw
