When Should You Stop Being Friends with Someone? The Hard Truth

Understanding the Signs: Is It Time to Let Go?

Friendship is one of life’s greatest joys, but sometimes, you find yourself questioning: "When should I stop being friends with someone?" It’s an uncomfortable question, but it’s also one that we all face at some point. No matter how strong a bond you think you have, sometimes, relationships change, people grow apart, or behaviors shift. So, when do you know it's time to walk away?

I had this conversation recently with my friend Sarah. She was struggling with a long-time friendship that had become more draining than uplifting. It made me think—this isn’t something we talk about enough. Knowing when to end a friendship isn’t about being harsh or vindictive. It’s about self-respect and recognizing when a relationship is no longer serving you. Let's dive in.

When the Friendship Feels One-Sided

1. You’re Always the One Reaching Out

Have you noticed that you’re the one doing all the work in the friendship? You're the one who texts first, makes the plans, and puts in all the effort. If this is a recurring theme, it might be time to reassess. A friendship should be mutual, with both people showing interest and effort.

A few months ago, I realized this about one of my old friends. I would constantly be the one texting, asking about their day, and making plans. But when it was time for them to reach out to me? Crickets. At some point, you start to ask yourself, "Is this even a friendship, or am I just a convenience?" That was a major red flag for me.

2. You’re the Only One Supporting Them

True friendships are built on support—whether it’s celebrating the good times or being there through the tough ones. If you're always the one offering support, and they never seem to reciprocate, it’s a sign of imbalance. It’s draining to constantly give without receiving anything in return. If they can’t even be there when you need them, it might be time to rethink things.

I remember a situation with an old friend of mine. I was going through a rough patch, dealing with some personal issues, and I reached out. They were nowhere to be found. Yet, when they needed something, I was always there. It felt like I was pouring into a bottomless pit. Sometimes, this imbalance just can’t be fixed.

When They’re Toxic for Your Well-Being

1. Negative Energy Constantly Surrounds You

If being around someone constantly drains you and leaves you feeling emotionally exhausted, it’s a major indicator that the relationship is no longer healthy. Toxic friends often bring negativity, whether through constant complaints, drama, or putting you down. At first, you might brush it off, but over time, this can erode your happiness.

I have this one acquaintance who used to always talk about their problems, constantly criticizing others, and rarely ever offering a positive word. At first, I thought I could handle it, but after a while, it started affecting my own mood. I found myself getting irritated or drained after hanging out with them. It became clear: if someone’s energy is constantly negative, it might be better to part ways for your own mental health.

2. They Don’t Respect Your Boundaries

Boundaries are essential in any relationship, and a real friend will respect yours. If someone is constantly pushing your limits, whether it’s invading your personal space, making inappropriate comments, or disrespecting your time, this is a huge red flag. No one should make you feel uncomfortable or taken advantage of.

There was one instance where a friend of mine repeatedly asked me to do things that were out of my comfort zone. I had set clear boundaries, but they kept disregarding them, thinking it was funny. Eventually, it became clear: respecting boundaries isn’t optional in friendship. If someone can’t do that, it’s probably time to move on.

When the Friendship Has Become Toxic for Your Growth

1. They Hold You Back

Sometimes, friends, even without meaning to, can hinder your personal growth. If your friendship is full of jealousy, competition, or criticism of your ambitions, it may be a sign that it’s time to walk away. A true friend will cheer you on and encourage you to be the best version of yourself. But when they constantly try to drag you down or make you feel inadequate, that’s not a friendship worth holding onto.

I remember a time when I started making progress in my career, and I was excited to share the news with a friend. Instead of celebrating with me, they dismissed my achievements, almost like they were threatened. That moment made me realize that our friendship had become toxic. They were no longer cheering me on but holding me back. That’s when I knew I needed to move on.

2. You’re Not Growing Together

Friendships evolve over time, and that’s natural. But sometimes, you realize that you and your friend are no longer on the same path. Your values, interests, and life goals may have shifted in different directions. If the friendship no longer feels like a positive force in your life, it might be time to stop clinging to it just out of habit.

One of my closest friends and I grew apart over the years. We used to share the same values, but as life went on, we found ourselves growing in completely different directions. I didn’t want to give up on the friendship, but it became clear that our differences were too large to ignore. Sometimes, it’s just about growing separately—respectfully.

Final Thoughts: Trust Your Instincts

So, when should you stop being friends with someone? The answer is never easy, but it comes down to how you feel in the relationship. If it’s more draining than uplifting, if the respect is lacking, or if your growth is being stunted, it might be time to let go.

It’s not about being cruel—it’s about preserving your own well-being. Friendships should make you feel supported, loved, and inspired. If that’s not the case anymore, it’s okay to walk away. Trust your instincts, and don’t feel guilty about prioritizing your happiness.

I know it’s tough. I’ve been there. But sometimes, walking away is the best thing you can do for both of you. And who knows? It might just open the door for healthier, more fulfilling relationships in the future.

Is 165 cm normal for a 15 year old?

The predicted height for a female, based on your parents heights, is 155 to 165cm. Most 15 year old girls are nearly done growing. I was too. It's a very normal height for a girl.

Is 160 cm too tall for a 12 year old?

How Tall Should a 12 Year Old Be? We can only speak to national average heights here in North America, whereby, a 12 year old girl would be between 137 cm to 162 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/3 feet). A 12 year old boy should be between 137 cm to 160 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/4 feet).

How tall is a average 15 year old?

Average Height to Weight for Teenage Boys - 13 to 20 Years

How to get taller at 18?

Staying physically active is even more essential from childhood to grow and improve overall health. But taking it up even in adulthood can help you add a few inches to your height. Strength-building exercises, yoga, jumping rope, and biking all can help to increase your flexibility and grow a few inches taller.

Is 5.7 a good height for a 15 year old boy?

Generally speaking, the average height for 15 year olds girls is 62.9 inches (or 159.7 cm). On the other hand, teen boys at the age of 15 have a much higher average height, which is 67.0 inches (or 170.1 cm).

Can you grow between 16 and 18?

Most girls stop growing taller by age 14 or 15. However, after their early teenage growth spurt, boys continue gaining height at a gradual pace until around 18. Note that some kids will stop growing earlier and others may keep growing a year or two more.

Can you grow 1 cm after 17?

Even with a healthy diet, most people's height won't increase after age 18 to 20. The graph below shows the rate of growth from birth to age 20. As you can see, the growth lines fall to zero between ages 18 and 20 ( 7 , 8 ). The reason why your height stops increasing is your bones, specifically your growth plates.