Stop Walking on Eggshells: A Better Way to Heal One Sided Friendships
AI-generated image of two friends sharing coffee and conversation, reflecting calm connection and emotional healing.
When Friendship Starts to Feel Like Work
Have you ever left a hangout feeling smaller than when you arrived? Or found yourself replaying texts, wondering if you said something wrong?
When you’re constantly second-guessing yourself, you may be stuck in a one sided friendship. The kind that drains more than it fills.
As a faith based therapist in Central Texas, I’ve seen how many of us mistake walking on eggshells for keeping the peace. Healthy peace doesn’t come from pretending everything is fine. It comes from honesty, balance, and mutual care.
Is It One Sided or Just a Hard Season?
Not every rough patch means a friendship is unhealthy. Life changes with new jobs, babies, illness, or grief can shift how we show up in relationships.
A hard season still includes care and understanding on both sides.
A one sided friendship often feels like:
You’re always the one apologizing or reaching out
You feel anxious before seeing the person
You leave conversations feeling unseen or emotionally exhausted
The key is noticing the pattern. Does this dynamic happen again and again, or is it temporary?
How Miscommunication Takes Root
Something as small as a missed text or an emoji can spark hurt feelings. A thumbs-up meant as “got it” might feel like rejection to someone who needed reassurance.
Our friendship styles differ. Some people connect through long talks. Others prefer light check-ins or acts of service. Clarifying those differences early protects both sides from unnecessary hurt.
When Faith and Boundaries Work Together
Scripture reminds us to “guard your heart above all else” (Proverbs 4:23). Setting boundaries isn’t punishment, it’s wisdom.
Healthy boundaries might sound like:
“I care about you, but I can’t talk about this every day.”
“I’d love to stay connected, but I need to scale back for now.”
God calls us to live at peace (Romans 12:18), not to people-please. You can love someone deeply and still need space. Boundaries protect peace and allow relationships to grow in healthy soil.
The Notice – Name – Nurture Framework
When emotions rise, pause before reacting.
Notice what’s happening inside you.
Name the pattern without judgment.
Nurture a response rooted in grace.
That may mean having an honest talk, shifting how often you communicate, or stepping back for a season.
Notice – Name – Nurture keeps you grounded in compassion instead of criticism.
Allow Friendships to Evolve
Some relationships are for a lifetime; others serve a season. Letting go doesn’t mean failure. It means recognizing your current capacity.
You can bless someone from afar and still guard your peace. That kind of acceptance prepares your heart for genuine healing and gives you space to reflect on what friendship means in this season of life.
Take Time to Reflect
If this message resonates, take a few minutes to reflect:
Which friendships leave you feeling drained instead of strengthened?
Where might you need a loving boundary?
How could curiosity replace assumption this week?
Healing one sided friendships starts with honesty; with God, with yourself, and with others. There truly is a better way to heal.
A Better Way Guide
This guide isn’t just a resource; it’s a companion for your healing journey.
A Better Way Forward: Healing One Sided Friendships with Faith and Boundaries
Healthy friendships don’t demand perfection—they thrive on honesty, empathy, and grace. When you stop walking on eggshells and start communicating openly, you create room for both people to grow. Boundaries aren’t barriers; they’re bridges that protect peace and preserve connection. Whether it’s a season of space or a moment of repair, choosing faith and emotional maturity will always lead you toward healing.
📍 Eleanor Brown, MA, LPC — faith based therapist in Central Texas
💻 Serving clients across Texas and Florida via telehealth
