9 Major Signs You Have A Selfish Friend

Friends are the chosen family we rely on for support, often showcased in our social media feeds. However, within the diverse realm of friendships, there are individuals more focused on their own image than on genuine connection.

While they may not physically take from you, they can diminish your joy. These friends, characterized by self-centered tendencies, come in various forms.

Whether it's a friend treating your possessions as their own or one who lacks genuine empathy, selfish friends present a puzzling challenge.

So, how can you identify these individuals, and more importantly, how do you navigate these relationships without compromising your well-being or personal boundaries?

Each of us possesses quirks and distinctive traits, yet when particular behaviors consistently prioritize one individual's wishes over others', it merits examination.

Identifying indicators of a selfish friend extends beyond merely identifying flaws; it involves comprehending recurring patterns that may affect a relationship. Let's delve into some of these cues.

# Prioritizing their needs above yours

Selfishness isn’t merely a philosophical concept; it's a psychological behavior where individuals consistently put their own interests first.

Have you ever had a friend who always insists on choosing the movie, even though you dislike horror films? That behavior might be a manifestation of selfishness.

# Disinterest or disregard for your emotions

A lack of empathy occurs when someone struggles to understand or empathize with others' feelings. If your friend frequently dismisses your emotions or problems, it could be a sign of this deficiency.

# Craving constant attention and validation

A perpetual need for approval may stem from underlying self-esteem issues. Friends who constantly seek praise and attention can be draining, particularly if they don’t reciprocate support.

# Failure to reciprocate favors or kindness

Friendship is built on mutual give and take. If you consistently find yourself giving without receiving, your friend might have a propensity for taking advantage.

Consider this scenario: you plan surprise birthday parties for them every year, but on your birthday, they can’t even spare a moment for a quick “Happy Birthday” text.

# Making conversations solely about themselves

Conversations should involve mutual engagement, not one-sided monologues. If your friend consistently redirects discussions back to themselves, they may exhibit self-centered behavior.

# Employing manipulation or guilt-tripping for personal gain

Manipulative tactics aren’t exclusive to movie villains; they can manifest in friendships too. Beware of friends who use guilt to coerce you into complying with their wishes.

For instance, a friend might say, “If you were a true friend, you'd lend me your car for the weekend,” exploiting your emotions to achieve their objectives.

# Frequently canceling plans or displaying unreliability

Trust is essential in friendship, and reliability is its cornerstone. If your friend frequently cancels plans at the last minute, it may raise doubts about their commitment.

# Claiming credit for your achievements

While shared success is gratifying, if your friend insists on taking sole credit for something you achieved together, it’s a concerning behavior.

# Exhibiting jealousy or resentment toward your accomplishments

While jealousy is natural, an inability to celebrate your successes suggests underlying resentment.

Imagine landing your dream job or acing a challenging exam, only to receive a lukewarm response or outright criticism from your friend. Such lack of enthusiasm can dampen your moment of triumph.