Just like everybody else, I’ve had my fair share of relationships. Friendships and romantic ones, they all come and go, but as an introvert, I’ve found that friend breakups can be just as difficult as romantic ones.
I’m not sure exactly as to why that is, but I do know that I’ve learned from those experiences. While friendships and romantic relationships aren’t supposed to be inherently easy, I can say I have grown from my breakups, with friends and partners alike.
That being said, here are a few things that I’ve learned from some past friend breakups, and how I hope to move forward with this information in all of my future relationships.
- Communication is key
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I know everybody says this, but this is something that I had to learn personally, and that my friends have taught me as well. Even if it is a relationship you have been in for years or a friend you have known since childhood, it is still important to talk to people about what you want, and what your friends want from you too.
Keep your friends and partners up to date on what’s going on with you, and try to stay on the same page with them as well. A lack of communication is the quickest way in my experience for relationships to deteriorate, and it is important to remember that communication goes both ways.
- You don’t always have to agree on everything, but you probably should on some things
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They say opposites attract, and for what it’s worth, I believe that to a degree. But when your differences outweigh your similarities and become a point for contention, you might want to reevaluate the relationship.
Think carefully about what it is that brought the two of you together in the first place, and try to celebrate the things that bring you together more often.
- It’s okay to let go
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Not all relationships are built to last. You don’t have to force something that isn’t meant to work; if you aren’t getting the same output that you’re putting into a relationship, you might need to ask yourself if this person is really worth your time and energy.
Some friends can be emotionally draining, depending on what they ask of you, and if they don’t give the same in return, it isn’t fair to either of you to stay together. Keep tabs on what you get from and what you give a relationship and a person, and if it’s time to let go of something that exhausts you mentally.
- Always ask questions, and ask for advice from someone you trust
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If all else fails, go to someone you trust outside of a sticky situation. Ask them for unbiased advice on you and your person, and if the friendship is worth it. Another voice on the matter is always valuable.