We all love our friends right? We share almost our whole lives with them, we trust and confide in them. However, what happens when they become a bit overbearing and intrusive?
Can a friend even be invasive, to begin with? Yes! See, as much as you are expected to be honest and open about your life to your friends, it does not mean that they are entitled to every detail to the “T”.
According to Mother For Life, signs of an invasive friend include, calling multiple times in a row, leaving messages, and texting is not enough anymore, sulking, insisting on your most intimate information.
The health and wellness information publication, Happiful states that in friendships, boundaries are important as they are clear ways to communicate personal preferences and expectations, protecting personal space and mental health.
“Creating boundaries within a friendship allows you both to set out what you want and expect from each other. This doesn’t mean that you have to say yes to every request (especially if any proposed boundaries make you uncomfortable!), but it can make it feel easier to speak up when you are feeling hurt, overwhelmed, offended, or taken for granted.”
In dealing with invasive friends the above publication suggests that you take a step back to understand why you feel uncomfortable, resentful, hurt, or angry towards your friend’s invasiveness. It is then stated that you be direct and explain your boundaries, even if they’re not always necessary.
“If you feel like your friendship is deteriorating, it can be a sign that it’s time to address things head-on.”
Also see: Trying to make work friends? A guide on how to combat loneliness in the workplace
