Having friends who stick by us through good times and bad is essential. Our friendships grow and evolve as individuals. Some friendships do not stand the test of time, even though we hope they do.
It may sound simple to decide whether your friend should stay for a season, a lifetime, or just for now, but it’s not that easy. When it comes to friendships, the same rules don’t always apply, especially when you mix mutual friends, complicated pasts, and sensitive feelings.
Here’s how to end a friendship while protecting your heart from the experts
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The Right Time To End A Friendship
The ideal friendship is reciprocal. Susan Zinn recommends evaluating your NDWVs: Needs, Desires, Wants, and Values.
Zinn told TODAY, “What are your NDWVs for the friendships you have, and how do these core characteristics compare to your friends.”
You need to consider this, especially if you bring a problem to your friend’s attention and they refuse to change. If this happens, reevaluate the friendship.
Unhealthy Friendship Signs
The best way to judge a friendship’s toxic qualities is to remove yourself from the situation. Here are some questions Zinn recommends:
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- Is your friend interested in you?
- Is your friend manipulative?
- Is your friend neglecting you or judging you?
- Do you find your friend emotionally draining?
- Do you have a negative relationship with your friend?
How To End A Friendship Via Text
It’s seldom okay to end a friendship over text. It may be easier and less confrontational to text a friend, but experts caution there are better ways.
It is essential for adults to meet in person or via phone or FaceTime to have these tough conversations, Holton said, adding that it will “build stronger character and communication skills.”
However, there are always exceptions. Text your feelings if you feel unsafe around the person or if they make it difficult for you to speak up.