Friends are supposed to make ushappy, right?
Why keep these troublemakers around?
So how can you decide if it’s worth salvaging a friendship that causes agitationbut also brings some happiness?
The narcissistSixty-five percent of women have coped with an egomaniacal bud, our poll finds.
The chronic downerFifty-nine percent have endured a needy or emotionally draining confidante.
The criticFifty-five percent have befriended a self-righteous or overly critical person.
The underminerForty-five percent confess that they’ve had pals who sling passive-aggressive backhanded compliments.
Um, no, thanks.
The flakeThirty-seven percent have gotten fed up with a buddy who’s reliably unreliable.
That depends on how you feel when you’re with her.
I mostly feel good when we’re together, although in some situations, I get annoyed or angry.
No one is perfect.
If a chum’s quirks drive you nuts, just say so.
Here’s a sample script: “I love you, but not when you hog the convo.
From now on, I’ll stop you and say, ‘My turn!’
Work for you?”
When I’m with her, I feel drained or irritable.
If you always end up engaging in catty gossip, the answer may be no.
It’s a phase.
Things used to be totally great between us.
She could be going through a rough patch that’s affecting your bond.
If you share a strong foundation, try saying, “Lately you’ve been acting odd.
Are you OK?”
That can help you get to the root of the change.
It’s a regular pattern.
Things have felt not-quite-right for as long as I’ve known her.
I’ll put up with a lot to avoid a confrontation.
It may be time to split up.
Send her an email, which will let you speak your mind directly and thoughtfully.
On the phone, you could lose your nerve or be guilted into a meetup.
I wish you all the best."
That may sound harsh, but it will convey the message that you’re serious about creating some space.
We have a lot of ties.
We’re in the same circle, and she knows my family.
I know I’ll run into her, and it would be too awkward to face her.
She’s still pestering me to hang out 24/7.
It may be time to split up….
Do you have a toxic friend?
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Photo Credit: Stephanie Rausser
