why is being self centered harmful for friendship
Being self-centered can be harmful for friendship for several reasons:
1. Lack of empathy: Self-centered individuals often struggle to put themselves in someone else's shoes and understand their perspective or feelings. This lack of empathy can make it difficult for them to provide emotional support or be there for their friends when they need it.
2. One-sided conversations: Self-centered individuals tend to dominate conversations and only talk about themselves. This can be frustrating for friends who feel like they don't have the space to express themselves or have their needs heard. Over time, this can lead to feelings of being unheard or unimportant in the friendship.
3. Lack of reciprocity: Friendships are built on mutual give-and-take, where both people support and care for each other. However, self-centered individuals may prioritize their own needs and wants above others', often neglecting or dismissing their friends' needs. This can create an imbalanced dynamic where one person feels taken advantage of or like the relationship is one-sided.
4. Difficulty in resolving conflicts: Relationships inevitably encounter conflicts and disagreements. Self-centered individuals may struggle to find common ground or compromise, as they are primarily focused on their own desires or opinions. This can hinder effective communication and problem-solving within the friendship, leading to unresolved conflicts or growing resentment.
5. Lack of authentic connection: True friendships thrive on genuine connection, trust, and shared experiences. When someone is self-centered, they may struggle to genuinely connect with others as they are preoccupied with their own agenda or interests. This can limit the depth and authenticity of the friendship, making it challenging for others to feel truly understood or valued.
Overall, being self-centered can harm friendships by creating imbalances, eroding trust, and limiting the emotional support and connection that is essential in healthy relationships.