Why Your Friendship Standards Are Actually Too Low

When it comes to friendships, many of us often find ourselves settling for relationships that don’t truly meet our needs or make us feel valued. This can happen for a variety of reasons, such as fear of being alone, lack of self-confidence, or simply not knowing what we deserve in a friendship. However, having low standards in friendships can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction and unhappiness.

One of the main reasons your friendship standards might be too low is that you may be accepting behaviors or attitudes from friends that you wouldn’t tolerate in other areas of your life. For instance, if a friend consistently cancels plans at the last minute or doesn’t respect your boundaries, it might be a sign that you’re not holding them to a high enough standard.

Another issue is the tendency to prioritize maintaining the friendship over your own emotional well-being. This can lead to staying in friendships that are toxic or unfulfilling simply because you don’t want to be alone or because you feel obligated. However, true friendships should uplift and support you, not drain your energy or make you feel bad about yourself.

It’s also important to consider whether your friendships are based on superficial connections rather than deep, meaningful relationships. If your friendships revolve around gossip, drama, or shallow conversations, it might be time to reassess what you’re looking for in a friendship. Deep connections are built on trust, empathy, and mutual support, and these are the qualities that truly enrich our lives.

Setting higher standards in friendships doesn’t mean being overly demanding or critical. It means recognizing your worth and expecting to be treated with respect and kindness. By doing so, you open yourself up to the possibility of forming more fulfilling and lasting relationships. This might involve having difficult conversations, setting boundaries, or even distancing yourself from friendships that no longer serve you.

Ultimately, recognizing that your friendship standards are too low is the first step towards creating more meaningful and satisfying relationships. It’s about valuing yourself enough to seek out friendships that enrich your life and make you feel seen and appreciated. By raising your standards, you’re not only improving your friendships but also investing in your own happiness and well-being.