5. The social climber
There is a difference between networking and using people to get where you’re trying to go. When we talked about the social climber before it was mentioned that the best way to get rid of this type of friend is to push them in the direction of someone else they think they can take advantage of. While I understand wanting to rid yourself of the users in your life, do you really want to wish that person on someone else? I’d suggest just stop putting yourself in a position for them to ask you for things. Start saying no when they ask for favors that are outside the scope of normal friendships. I know it’s hard for some people to say no. I’m a people pleaser and will stretch myself too thin trying to help everyone I can. But for your own sanity it’s ok to say “sorry, but I am not the best person to help you out here.”
And don’t let yourself become this friend. Yes, it’s ok to network. Find mentors in your field who can help you advance in career goals. Ask for advice from that super fit friend when you’re ready to tackle your new years resolutions. Enlist your creative friends in helping you come up with a great care package theme. But don’t take advantage of them. Don’t expect handouts from friends who are crafty. Don’t hope your beachbody coach friend will be able to just train you for free. And don’t forget to say thank you when someone does go out of their way to help you achieve your goals.
As much as we want to avoid toxic friendships it’s just as important that we avoid becoming the toxic friend in someone else’s life.
