End of Friendship

An epidemic of anger and hatred grips today’s world. Husbands and wives argue politics. Holiday dinners can be ruined by nasty disagreements over just about anything. Hard feelings all around within families and between friends – even very old friends … people whom you believed you’d never come to dislike or distrust.

Though you probably know why freindly relations come to an end, here’s a list for your consideration.

• Unspoken resentment – swallowing stuff instead of talking it out. It leaks out sideways.
• Uneven effort – one person always texting, planning, forgiving. Exhausting.
• Life transitions – new jobs, partners, kids, moves… not fatal by themselves, but neglect is.
• Poor communication – assuming instead of asking; silence instead of honesty.
• Broken trust – lies, gossip, sharing secrets that weren’t yours to share.
• Jealousy & comparison – success, relationships, attention. Quiet but corrosive.
• Boundary disrespect – jokes that aren’t jokes, advice that’s really control.
• Values drift – sometimes people just grow in different directions.
• Conflict avoidance – “keeping the peace” until there’s nothing left to keep.
• Taking each other for granted – friendship needs maintenance, not autopilot.

The sneakiest killer?
👉 Indifference. When neither of you is mad… you just stop caring enough to try.

Whether it’s you or the other person who ended a friendship or family relationship, the feeling is never pleasant. Each case is unique. It’s usually worse when you’re on the receiving end. But it’s no more pleasant when you’ve been hurt or betrayed by someone close to you, and then you decide to end the relationship for your own well-being. 

Removing that person from your life will be an improvement, but may not help you get over the hurt feelings. If you are struggling in that way – or if you are second-guessing yourself for ending a relationship or friendship – it might be a good idea to get some feedback from a professional. It’s not always necessary, but if you’re interested, please feel free to call 219-309-3928 for a short no-cost consultation. It would be an honor to be of service.

For more thoughts click Personality and Character

Thanks for reading!