It can be tricky to navigate a friendship where one person feels controlled by the other. Here are some signs to watch for:
- They constantly criticize your choices and decisions. This might be about your career, relationships, or even what you wear.
- They try to isolate you from your other friends and family. This can be done subtly, like suggesting you spend less time with them, or more directly, like making negative comments about your loved ones.
- They make you feel guilty for doing things they don't approve of. This guilt trip could be about spending time with someone else, pursuing your hobbies, or simply saying no to their requests.
- They pressure you to do things you're uncomfortable with. This could be anything from attending events you don't want to, to agreeing to their plans even if they conflict with your own.
- They frequently try to control your emotions and reactions. This might involve telling you how you should feel, making you feel bad for expressing your true emotions, or even trying to dictate how you respond to certain situations.
If you're noticing these signs, it's important to trust your gut. If your friend's behavior is making you feel uncomfortable, anxious, or unhappy, it's important to talk to them about it. Let them know how their actions are impacting you and set clear boundaries. If they're not willing to listen or change, it might be time to re-evaluate the friendship.
