Article: Ask yourself if any of your friends feel like "emotional vampires"--people who want to be listened to, admired, and sympathized with, but don't return the favor when you want to talk. Does it seem like they're pulling you down into their problems without helping you with yours? Drama-prone friends who monopolize your time and energy without reciprocating might not be worth keeping around. Think deeply about whether the friendship is worth your time and effort. These could include a friend talking behind people's backs, acting rudely towards friends or family, or anything that makes you uncomfortable or upset. Examine how you feel after spending time with them. Feeling tired, stressed or upset after the interaction is the biggest red flag of all. Confront them kindly but firmly by saying, "You've been talking a lot about other people lately and it's been bothering me. Is there anything you want to talk about?" If a friend doesn't respond to your attempts to help or doesn't show any effort towards changing their habits, it may be time to let the friendship go. Try saying, "I value our friendship, but it's become too difficult to overcome your negativity. If you ever want to talk or try to change your outlook, I'm here, but I need to focus on myself for a while."
What is a summary of what this article is about?
Take an inventory of your existing friendships. Confront friends head-on when you see warning signs. Limit your time with toxic friends, or leave them behind completely when necessary.