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Getty Images/iStockphotoIf you have that nagging feeling that you’re putting in more than you’re getting out of a relationship, don’t ignore it.
Maybe it’s a friendship, a romantic partnership, or even a work situation. It’s easy to brush off these feelings, but ignoring them won’t make them go away. If you notice any of these subtle signs, it might be time to have a conversation about how you’re being treated. It’s not about playing the blame game; it’s about creating healthy relationships where everyone feels valued and appreciated.
1. Your efforts go unnoticed and unacknowledged.
You go above and beyond, but it feels like your efforts are met with a shrug. Whether it’s cooking dinner, offering support, or simply being there to listen, your contributions are overlooked or taken for granted. A simple “thank you” can go a long way in showing appreciation.
2. They cancel plans last minute without a valid reason.
We all have unexpected things pop up, but if someone consistently bails on you at the last minute without a good reason, it’s a sign they don’t prioritise your time. It sends the message that you’re not important enough to warrant a proper excuse or a rescheduled date.
3. They don’t make time for you, but expect you to be available for them.
You’re always there for them, whether it’s a late-night chat or a last-minute favour. But when it comes to them making time for you, they’re always too busy or have other priorities. It’s a one-sided relationship where your needs are constantly put on the back burner.
4. They rarely offer to help or contribute.
Source: Unsplash Whether it’s household chores, running errands, or simply offering a helping hand, they seem reluctant to contribute. You find yourself shouldering most of the responsibility, while they sit back and enjoy the fruits of your labour.
5. They’re quick to criticise but slow to praise.
They’re always ready to point out your flaws and mistakes, but rarely offer genuine compliments or acknowledge your successes. This negative feedback loop can chip away at your self-esteem and make you feel undervalued.
6. They interrupt you or talk over you.
Your thoughts and opinions are consistently dismissed or interrupted. They don’t seem interested in what you have to say or value your perspective. This lack of respect can leave you feeling unheard and unimportant.
7. They make decisions without consulting you.
Whether it’s big life decisions or simply choosing a restaurant for dinner, they don’t bother to involve you in the decision-making process. It’s as if your opinion doesn’t matter, or they assume you’ll simply go along with whatever they want.
8. They forget important dates or details about your life.
Source: Unsplash They forget your birthday, your anniversary, or other important events in your life. They don’t seem to remember details about your job, your hobbies, or your dreams. It’s as if they’re not paying attention or simply don’t care enough to remember.
9. They don’t apologise or take responsibility for their mistakes.
Everyone makes mistakes, but it’s how we handle them that matters. When they mess up, they deflect blame, make excuses, or simply ignore the issue altogether. They don’t seem to care about how their actions affect you or make any effort to rectify the situation.
10. They take you for granted in social settings.
They leave you out of conversations, ignore your input, or love spending time with other people more than you. They might even embarrass you or make jokes at your expense. This disregard for your feelings in public settings is a clear sign they don’t value your presence.
11. They don’t celebrate your achievements or milestones.
Whether it’s a promotion at work, a personal accomplishment, or simply a good day, they don’t seem to share your enthusiasm. They offer lukewarm congratulations or dismiss your achievements as insignificant. This lack of support can make you feel like your wins don’t matter.
12. They’re unresponsive or slow to respond to your messages.
You often find yourself waiting for hours or even days for a reply to your texts or calls. When they do respond, it’s usually brief and dismissive. This lack of communication can make you feel like you’re not a priority in their life.
13. They don’t make an effort to understand your perspective or feelings.
When you try to explain how you’re feeling or share your perspective on a situation, they dismiss your concerns or invalidate your emotions. They don’t seem to care about understanding where you’re coming from or making you feel heard.
14. They compare you to other people in a negative way.
They constantly compare you to other people, highlighting your flaws and shortcomings. They might say things like, “Why can’t you be more like so-and-so?” This type of comparison is hurtful and undermines your confidence.
15. You feel drained and unappreciated in their presence.
Spending time with them leaves you feeling exhausted and emotionally depleted. You don’t feel valued or appreciated for who you are or what you bring to the relationship. This lingering sense of unease is a clear sign that something isn’t right.
