How to Break Up with a Friend: Gentle Tips for Ending Inactive Friendships
Good day, readers! Welcome back to Morning Coffee Blog! I hope you’re enjoying life right now while diving into today’s post. It may be raining in lovely jubbly London but always remember it shouldn’t stop you from having a great day! Let’s talk friendship break ups, shall we?
We’ve all had our share of friendships, some good, some bad, and some downright toxic. Hell, I have too! There’s no denying that navigating relationships, especially friendships, can be tricky and even heart-breaking. Sometimes, we hold on to people we’ve known for years, even though they may not be the best influence or simply aren’t contributing anything positive to our lives anymore.
But let’s be real. If things aren’t progressing in your friendships, and there’s no effort from their side, or worse, you’re the only one keeping the connection alive, it’s time to cut ties. Letting go of friends isn’t easy we know, but it’s necessary for growth and your own peace of mind. So here is a mature way to break up with an inactive friend.
Send a Polite But Direct Message
Cutting someone off doesn’t need to be dramatic or mean-spirited. You can express yourself kindly but firmly. Here’s a straightforward sample text or voice note if you’re not confident enough to call them or meet up like a scene out of the Real Housewives Of Potomac (haha!) , you could send:
" Hey [insert their name]! I hope you’re doing well. I’ve been thinking a lot about our friendship recently, and I just want to be upfront with you. Since we’ve known each other, I’ve made quite a few (or a lot) attempts to keep our friendship going, but it feels like it’s not been reciprocated."
Acknowledge The Lack Of Effort
None of us really enjoy explaining our feelings, but sometimes it’s important to be honest and share how we’ve been treated from our own perspective.
If you feel comfortable, you can continue with something like this:
" I’ve invited you to brunches, birthdays, and other events, but most of the time, you’ve declined or not shown much interest. I understand life gets busy for everyone, but I think that when we value people, we show up for them. And I’ve noticed that you haven’t really been there for me."
This is one situation that many face so tailor the message to your situation, but keep it respectful. The goal is to be clear about your feelings without causing unnecessary drama. Friendships, like any relationship, require effort from both sides. It’s important to acknowledge when that effort isn’t there.
Example Closure
This gives both you and the other person closure without any bad blood.
"So with that being said, it’s better we leave things where they are. I wish you all the best for the future. Take care."
It’s a respectful way to walk away from something that isn’t serving you anymore.
Recognising The Difference Between Friends And Associates
A friend is someone who actively supports and shares a meaningful connection with you and always strives to be in your personal life, while an associate is more of a casual acquaintance, involved in your life on a surface level without the depth or commitment of true friendship. If you did not know already, there’s a big difference between a friend and an associate.
Be Ready To Let Go And Let God
It’s okay to express that you need more from your friendships and that it’s not working for you anymore. That doesn’t make you selfish; it makes you someone who values meaningful connections and not surface ones.
In future If someone is not playing an active role in your life or showing up for you when it matters, it’s time to reconsider the friendship. True friendships are reciprocal! Both people should feel like they bring value to each other’s lives. If you constantly feel like you’re the one pushing for more connection, now is the best time to let them go because believe me, it wont change.
The most important thing is to surround yourself with authentic, genuine people who show up for you just as much as you show up for them. You got this!
I'd love to hear your thoughts on friendship breakups. Do you agree with this approach? How do you approach ending a friendship that’s no longer working? Why do you think people hold on to friendships that are not serving them anymore? Comment below! Also, bookmark Morning Coffee Blog for more posts on lifestyle, parenthood, relationships, friendships, and Self-Care. We’re here to share, support, and grow together.
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