Lightening up a friendship can be done in a calm and diplomatic way.
Whether it’s a toxic or one-sided friendship, the reasons for a friendship breakup can be many. To announce it without hurting the other, it is better to show transparency and honesty, avoiding falling into reproaches and accusations.
Talk rather than remain silent
If it is difficult to break up with a friend, it is because the decision may be difficult for the other to accept. Preferring to remain silent to avoid conflict can on the contrary bring doubt and hurt more than comfort.
It is therefore better to be honest about the reasons for the separation by exposing what you feel and inviting the other to reflect by also giving their opinion. Also take the time to prepare yourself before starting the discussion in order to put aside excessive emotions such as anger or sadness that prevent you from thinking rationally and being able to listen.
Avoid reproaches that can provoke understanding
Rather than falling into a list of reproaches and accusations that can provoke a reaction of incomprehension and hurt the ego of your interlocutor, privilege the expression of your feelings, both on the feelings and the emotions that you have. lived. If you see an aggressive response, avoid outbidding yourself and invite the friend to think things over and contact you later.
Finally, take the time to thank the person for what they have brought you and the moments you have shared together, but explain to them that you have evolved and that for the moment your interests are not compatible, that is why you prefer to take this distance.
Find out more: “Passion in friendship” by Danièle Brun, Odile Jacob editions.
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