“When Friendship Feels One-Sided: The Pain of Being Taken for Granted” By Poonam Kumari

 Introduction

Friendship is one of the most beautiful bonds we form in life. It’s built on love, trust, and the comfort of knowing someone has your back.
But sometimes, the very people we care for the most start treating us like we’re just there. And that’s when friendship begins to hurt.

We often talk about relationships needing care, communication, and support — but forget that friendship needs the same effort too.
People forget to appreciate this bond, assuming it will always remain strong. But no connection stays alive without effort — not even friendship.

And let’s not forget:
Friendship doesn’t have a gender.
It’s not limited by labels — it’s about energy, respect, and presence.

1. Signs You’re Being Taken for Granted

  • You’re always the first to check in — they rarely do.

  • They expect you to be available, but never ask how you are.

  • When you set boundaries, they get distant or defensive.

  • You forgive them quickly, but they don’t offer the same grace.

  • Your presence is expected, not appreciated.

2. What It Does to You
Being taken for granted slowly drains your emotional energy.
You may begin to feel:

  • Invisible

  • Used

  • Questioning your own worth

  • Afraid to speak up because you fear losing the connection

This imbalance creates silent wounds — the kind that don’t bleed, but ache deeply.

3. Why People Do This
Some people take friendship as a guarantee, not a gift.

  • They believe you’ll always be there, no matter what.

  • They’re used to receiving more than they give.

  • Or maybe, they never learned what real friendship looks like.

It’s not always about cruelty — sometimes, it’s just emotional immaturity.

4. How to Protect Your Peace

  • Stop overgiving where there is no reciprocity.

  • Set boundaries: It’s not selfish, it’s self-respect.

  • Talk to them — sometimes people aren’t aware of how their actions affect you.

  • Walk away if the pattern continues — even if it hurts.

You deserve friendships that feel like safety, not sacrifice.

Conclusion
You’re not asking for too much. You’re just asking for the kind of friendship you give. If someone consistently treats you like an option, it’s okay to make yourself unavailable.

Let this be your reminder:
True friendship is mutual effort. You’re not hard to love — just offering love to the wrong people.

And always remember:
Whether it’s with a girl, a boy, or beyond those labels — friendship deserves effort, appreciation, and care, just like any other relationship.

— Poonam Kumari 🌿

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