How to Cut Ties From a Toxic Friend

Have you ever had a friend that sucks the life out of you, leaving you feeling drained? I know I have. There are people out there who consume all of our energy without ever replenishing or filling us back up, whether they are aware of it or not. They are the kind of people who take, take, and take. Even when there is nothing left of you to give, they will try to take some more.

These types of people are also referred to as energy vampires. They feed on your willingness to listen and care for them, leaving you exhausted and overwhelmed. They want so badly to be heard that regardless if you are busy in the middle of a family dinner, on vacation, or feeling ill, they will convince you the level of importance to give you their attention is so crucial, you actually sympathize and give in.

I recently decided to cut off communication with a friend who was exactly like this. She would keep me on the phone for hours even when I would tell her I had things to do or someplace to be. Her lack of awareness was terribly selfish, but my big caring heart always let her in, and I would take her calls because I knew she needed someone to talk to. I wanted to help, but after years of hearing her complain about the same issues and lending her some logical advice, and not ever taking any of it, it was time to cut the ties.