Does this describe one of your friends: always putting you down, making you feel bad about yourself, and basically draining all your positive energy? If so, you may have gotten yourself into a toxic friendship. Since our interpersonal relationships affect our health, careers, and families, you probably don't need another unnecessary stress in your life.
Let's start with a general definition of a good friend-someone who is supportive, caring, and makes an overall positive impact on your life. In contrast, a toxic friend is a person who drains you in emotional and/or financial ways by being consistently needy or overly critical.
So, what can you do about this toxic drain on your life?
Admit that the person is doing you more harm than good. This can be tough when the person is a friend from childhood, you know that the person has no one else to rely on, or you just feel trapped. However, it might be time to acknowledge that you're hurting yourself in the long-run if you continue to harbor an abusive relationship.
Take a proactive approach to your friendship. We all want to get along with other people and be liked. But sometimes, you just have to say no. Setting boundaries is important to maintaining any kind of relationship. This means taking steps to make your own feelings a priority. So when toxic friends ask for something that you just don't want to give or are being insensitive to your needs, put your foot down!
Talk to other people. Are your other friends and family expressing their concern over your relationship? Find other opinions from people who you trust. Their advice can be helpful.
End the friendship. If you've talked to the toxic friend and expressed your frustrations with him/her and they don't seem to quite "get it", saying goodbye may be the healthiest solution. It's difficult to break up with anyone, but when you think about it, there is no sense to maintain a relationship that causes you emotional upset and constant hurt.
Reciprocation is the key to a good friendship. Each person should feel happy and satisfied about their mutual relationship. Though constant affection and compassion isn't necessary, striking a healthy balance between both of your needs is important to finding a life-long, good friend.
