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Friendship Struggles

Have you ever had a friend that you feel doesn't respect you? How did you deal with the situation? Are you still friends with that person? I think it's hard to let go of a friendship that you want even if you feel like the person you are hanging out with does not treat you the way you feel you deserve. It's even harder when you want to be around that person and it doesn't seem to be reciprocated. This is something that I have been faced with in my life and it's not easy making the right decision.

Try to see the other persons side of the story before making any judgement, but if the story always seems to be the same, "I have something else to do", "I'm not sure yet, but I'll let you know".... and the same list just repeats, something needs to change. At this point you are probably tired of trying to be a good friend to this person because you don't feel they really have any respect for you or your time.

How do you deal with something like this? Do you stand up for yourself? Gradually stop talking to them? One option is for you to remove yourself from the "best friend" or "close friend" role. Talk to them, be cordial, but don't try and take it any further. If that person really wants you to be in their life, they will make the effort. If you are confident enough to stand up for yourself, then go for it. Just remember to be respectful and to not make the situation any more stressful than it needs to be.

What if you still really want to be their friend? I've thought about this many times because it's hard to see that something is wrong when you really like being around that person. I think you should still be friends with them, but don't stress yourself out about it. If you know they won't agree to hanging out, rarely ask them or consider inviting multiple people to do something. Learn to find friends that do respect your time.

I hope this has helped any of you struggling with the same problem I have had before. I hope the friends you choose to be around make this year memorable and positive!