If It’s Broke, Fix It: Why Some Friendships Are Worth Sticking Out

Recognize the Role You Played or Are Playing In the Demise of a Friendship

I’ve noticed that when friendships end messy, one person is always talking about the thoughtless or horrible things that the ex-friend used to do. Take the time to see the things that you have done as well. Also, when you see these things, say something! The best friendships are the ones that are honest, where people speak their minds instead of hiding their feelings and putting on a fake and phoney smile. Why? Because no one likes a yes man. When you are one, the small things they do that bother you become big things, when they could have been put to a stop with a discussion a long time ago. When you are not forthcoming with your feelings, chances are, you will then be ending a friendship for all the wrong reasons.

Will You Have Regrets?

If you truly believe that there is no need for this person in your life, just think about what happens when they are gone. Will you regret it? Some of my male and female friends have that one friend that they wish they didn’t give up on so easily. Guilt can be a powerful thing and by the time you realize it, they may have just given up on you too.

Are You Treating Your Friends How You Would Want To Be Treated?

Some people don’t realize how important friendships are. You’re forming a bond with another individual and sharing things with them that you wouldn’t with anyone else. Take care of it. Respect it and cherish it. With that, learn to not only have friends, but be a friend too. I know this may sound strange, but there are a lot of people who expect friends to always be there for them, but are never there for them in return. That’s not fair, and it’s actually pretty selfish. Treat people how you want to be treated and don’t expect more than what you, yourself would be ready to give.

Know Yourself From Jump Street

This is something that my grandmother and many of the women in my family have always told me. Before you enter any type of relationship with anybody you have to know yourself. You become more secure and confident that way. You then know what you like and this can play into the type of people you surround yourself with, as well as how long you let them surround you. Then you wouldn’t have to worry about ending a friendship!

I think we’ve all had friends that we realized were of a toxic nature and needed to be removed from our lives, but many times, we let go of friendships we’ve had for years, if not decades, over reasons that aren’t really worth it. I ask that before you get quick to dump these girlfriends (or guy friends) from your circle, be sure to remember the good times and not just the bad times, because a true, great friend is hard to find. Don’t make a decision you might regret later…

More on Madame Noire!

• Where Are They Now? 9 Blue-Eyed Soul Singers We Used To Jam To
• He Might Be a Creepin’ Fool, But He’s a Talented One: 5 Classic Songs Stevie J Is Behind…
• The Devil Is a Lie: 7 Types of Hypocritical “Church Folk” Who Know They Need to Quit
• How Ya Going? 9 of Our Favorite Celebs Of Trinidadian Descent (There’s Some Surprises!)
• An Open Letter to My Single Sistas: Being Single is Not a Curse, It’s A Gift
• UGH! 10 Things Men Do That Drive Women Nuts