9 red flags you should not ignore in a friendship

Lack of mutual feelings Friendship should involve mutual support and care. If your friend consistently takes but rarely gives and never shows interest in your life, you might want to rethink things.

Bails out on you While occasional cancellations are understandable, consistent last-minute cancellations or being stood up without a valid reason can be a sign that your friend doesn't value your time or prioritises your friendship.

Manipulative behaviour Watch out for friends who try to manipulate or control you to get what they want. This can manifest in subtle ways, such as guilt-tripping, gaslighting, or using emotional manipulation tactics to influence your decisions.

Self-Centeredness Friendship is a two-way street, and both parties should feel valued and respected. If your friend consistently prioritises their needs over yours, it may indicate a self-centred attitude. 

Constant criticism While constructive criticism is a normal part of any relationship, constant negativity and criticism without any positive reinforcement can be damaging. 

Jealousy and competition  Healthy friendships are built on mutual respect and support, not competition or jealousy. If your friend seems envious of your successes, it may be a sign of a lack of genuine friendship.

Gossip Trust is the foundation of any friendship, and gossiping or betraying confidence erodes that trust. If your friend frequently talks behind your back or spreads rumours, it’s a major red flag.

Feeling drained Pay attention to how you feel about the friendship. If you constantly feel drained, unhappy, or anxious after spending time with your friend, it may be a sign that the relationship is toxic.

Lack of empathy One of the fundamental aspects of friendship is empathy. But if your friend constantly dismisses or invalidates your emotions, it may indicate a lack of genuine concern for your well-being.

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