What To Do When a Friend Becomes Flaky
July 7th, 2008Comment: For the purpose of this article I will be using the pronoun “she,” but if your friend is a male, pretend you see “he”.]
She said she would call and doesn’t. The cycle keeps repeating until you realize it has become one-sided. You’re always the one initiating contact. You’re upset because you used to think you were good friends, or maybe you were just beginning to see this person as a possible new best friend.
Honestly, it happens to the best of us. A LOT! People nowadays just are more fragmented, more portable, and busier. We’re all more dynamic than ever. This means that more and more relationships are forming and then ending after just a few meetings, even though there was a brilliant spark in the beginning. We meet to exchange some information with each other and then our ways separate.
The main thing to remember is that this is all very normal. Don’t start seeing yourself as unlikable or unworthy. Know that you are absolutely worthy of wonderful lasting friendships.
Next, give your friend lots of space. Stop initiating and see if she picks up the slack. Sometimes she won’t and sometimes she will. If she doesn’t, it’s good you found out sooner and not later. No one needs a friend who will never call. Hope for the best though. Always assume the best without panic. Maybe she is just busy and dealing with her own demanding issues. Once she does get in touch, you will have lots of new stimulating things to talk about.
Lastly, get more friends if you feel lonely. I know, I know it’s easier said that done, but it’s worth making the effort. My suggestion is always to do this by following what you are already passionate or curious about. For example, if you are interested in screenwriting, check out those kinds of seminars and clubs, online and offline. Even if you don’t befriend a single soul, you’ll still learn something and enjoy yourself.
Finally, check in with yourself about your current belief systems because they might need to be updated. Here are some examples:
NEGATIVE: Another one bites the dust. What’s wrong with me?
UPDATED: I am fantastic and I totally deserve awesome friends!
NEGATIVE: It’s so hard to make friends.
UPDATED: It’s easy making new friends and it’s so much fun!
NEGATIVE: I attract flaky people.
UPDATED: I attract wonderful people who are reliable.
NEGATIVE: I’ll be so sad if I lose her as a friend.
UPDATED: Losing her as a friend is not a big deal. I will wish her all the best and know I am about to meet an even better friend.
Hope that helps!