10 Glaring Signs You are Being Taken Advantage Of

Ever feel like you're the universe's personal punching bag, constantly being taken advantage of by everyone around you?

You're not alone. Whether it's your partner, your friend, or even your boss, the struggle of being played is something we all face, even if we don't always admit it.

So, why does this keep happening? Is it just bad luck? Bad karma? Not quite. The answer is a bit more complex, but don't worry.

By exploring the depths of human psychology, we'll uncover the reasons behind this pattern and learn how to stop others from taking advantage of you.

# Constantly Walking on Eggshells

If you find yourself rehearsing conversations in your head or if even a small sigh from your partner sends you into a panic, you’re walking on eggshells.

The constant mental strain of trying to avoid your partner’s disapproval keeps you emotionally trapped, making it easier for others to take advantage of you.

Plus, this daily stress gradually chips away at your self-esteem.

# One-Sided Affection or Effort

Have you ever noticed that you're always the one making the calls? Or maybe you're the one planning dates, making thoughtful gestures, or even starting basic conversations?

When all the effort is coming from one side, it's not a relationship—it's a solo effort, and you're the one doing all the work.

# Unspoken Expectations

Imagine being expected to pick someone up from the airport without a second thought, but you can’t recall the last time they did anything for you without a sigh or eye-roll.

It’s as if you’ve become a personal service provider without agreeing to it, and the worst part is your partner treats this as completely normal.

# Keeping Score

Ever hear something like, “I did this for you, so you owe me that”? If you’re not keeping score but they are, you’re in trouble. This tit-for-tat mentality turns every favor into a transaction instead of a genuine act of love or friendship.

This score keeping creates a power imbalance, keeping you constantly indebted and more susceptible to being taken advantage of.

# Expected to Drop Everything

When your phone buzzes and it’s your significant other needing something immediately, like being let in after getting locked out or wanting to vent right when you’re swamped with work, you’re expected to drop everything.

If they always expect you to be at their beck and call, it shows they view your life as secondary, which is the essence of being taken advantage of.

# The One-Sided Listener

We’ve all been there—being the shoulder to cry on, the ear for venting, or the go-to person for advice. But when it’s your turn to share, suddenly they have to go.

While it’s nice to be seen as wise, if you’re always the counselor without getting any emotional support in return, you’re being taken advantage of.

It’s a one-way street of emotional labor, showing that you’re being used, not valued.

# The Eternal Sponsor

If your wallet is getting more action than anyone else, be careful. This goes beyond just being generous—it’s an imbalance in the Social Exchange Theory.

If you’re always the one footing the bill, you’re more of a sponsor than a friend or partner.

# The Invisible Employee

Does your boss love your ideas but never remember your name in meetings? That’s power dependency theory in action. You’re not an invisible employee; you’re a valuable asset who isn’t getting the recognition you deserve.

# The Planner and the Ghost

If you’re always the one making plans, sending texts, and then getting ghosted, be wary. This is what psychologists call ‘social loafing,’ and it’s a clear sign that you’re being taken for granted, not taken seriously.

# The Guilt Trip Guru

Is someone making you feel like a bad person for saying no? That’s emotional blackmail designed to make you doubt your worth and your choices. It’s another way of being taken advantage of.