
Breaking Away From TOXIC Friendships! (Characteristics of a Toxic "Friend")
Updated: Jul 6, 2020
Many of us have developed relationships with some of the most toxic people ever. Most of the time, we don't even realize the negative impact this person can have on our lives. And sometimes....wait for it.....we are the toxic person!! Geez!!! Let me explain. When you spend a large amount of time with someone, their characteristics and behavior start to eventually rub off on you. For example, if you're spending the majority of your time with a miserable individual, most likely you will become miserable. Your brain starts to adapt to their behavior.
Have you ever heard of phrases such as, "Don't kill my vibe" or "Protecting my peace at all cost?" These phrases are simply sending one powerful message; avoid negative energy! The wrong energy can actually ruin your life if you let it. It can cause unnecessary stress, which can lead to self-esteem issues, mental anguish, medical problems, etc. Is a toxic friendship really worth it? Will you continue to allow someone to kill your vibe and rob you of your sanity?
HECK NO!!!!
Here are 11 characteristics of a toxic friend...
1. The Non- Supportive Friend! Yeah..Yeah!! This person might act like their happy for you, but the truth is simple. This individual is either intimidated, jealous or simply refuses to fit you in their schedule. All three scenarios are toxic. You shouldn't want a friend who is jealous of your success, intimidated by it, or who refuses to make time for you. These so called "friends" display this behavior by not calling you during your success moments, discreetly criticizing your success, or not showing up to any celebratory events, EVER! This person is consistently MIA during your special moments. A non-supportive friend will not call, show up, or even give you a simple like on on social media. Wow!! Your success bothers their soul. But....let me be completely clear. This does not mean a friend has to attend every single one of your celebrations or drop everything at the moment you call. Please be able to discern. Your friends have lives too. You don't want to make the wrong assumption. For instance, once I became a mom, I wasn't able to attend every function as I had in the past. It wasn't intentional. I just had new obligations and I had to prioritize accordingly. That's called...growing up! Did I lose some friendships over this? Yes. Did some of them think I was non-supportive? Yes. Did this upset me? Yes. Did some of them probably think I was jealous? Yes. Were any of these silly assumptions fair? Heck No!! It's rough trying to juggle as a new parent, spouse, professional, home owner, etc. I know from first hand experience. Be smart and think wisely before making a judgment. This section is specifically for the friend who disappears suddenly, during the time of your special moments. It's the most disturbing cycle ever. My advice: Try talking to this friend first before making any dramatic assumptions. If that doesn't work.......cut your losses.