Some things in life are better when done “one-sided.” You know, when done alone.
For example…
A fun game of solitaire, completing a challenging jigsaw puzzle, weeding your garden, or eating an entire pizza by yourself (no, just me?).
But that’s the thing.
When it comes to relationships, there should be a little give and take.
In other words, an equal (and balanced) partnership.
If you’re the only one putting in the effort, communicating, or providing emotional (even financial) support…
It sounds like you’re in a one-sided relationship.
But how do you recognize the signs? Well, here are six telltale behaviors to look out for.
Spot them before it’s too late!
1) They Don’t Apologize for a Mistake
There will be times when we make a mistake or say the wrong thing. Especially in the heat of the moment.
And you know that arguing or disagreeing is normal.
It can even be a good thing.
But for a relationship to work (and stay healthy), you must take responsibility for your actions and fix what you’ve broken.
Because at the end of the day, even if you didn’t mean to hurt your partner’s (or friend’s) feelings, you did.
That’s why you swallow your pride and make amends by asking for forgiveness (sincerely).
But for some people, the word “sorry” simply isn’t in their vocabulary. It just doesn’t make sense. At least, not when it’s their turn to apologize.
Instead, you’re usually the first (and only) person to take responsibility to restore peace. And if you don’t, they’ll guilt you or ignore you until you finally give in.
The truth is…
In their eyes, it’s never their fault.
They just see things from their perspective. Either that or they always have an excuse or a “good reason” why they said (or did) what they said.
It’s a pattern.
It will continue if you stay in this one-sided relationship.
2) They “crack” you regularly (until they need something)
Are you always the first one to reach out to them or include them in plans? Maybe they often leave you unread…
And if we’re being honest here, they only reach out to you when they need a favor or a shoulder to cry on. In other words, when it’s convenient for them.
Not only that…
But they’re constantly blowing you hot and cold. It’s confusing, to say the least.
Okay, we’ve all heard of the term “crackling.” But do you know its friendlier cousin, “capering?”
No.
What about “crackling?”
Simply put, this is where someone stays in touch, but in a limited way. They either slowly cut you off or keep you in touch, without committing.
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While these cutesy dating terms may seem harmless enough, they can be more damaging (and cruel) than complete ignoring.
They give the other person false hope.
But here’s the truth.
When you’re in a relationship, limited (or no) communication is a major red flag. What’s more, it’s a clear sign that this romance or friendship is one-sided.
3) They Never Ask About Your Day
When you talk to them, do you feel like they’re listening to you?
By that, I mean, are they present, asking relevant open-ended questions, rephrasing words, maintaining eye contact, and generally interested in you and what you have to say?
In other words, are they actively listening to you?
If not, you’re probably in a one-sided relationship.
Here’s the thing.
Communication is crucial if a relationship is going to work, and for good reason. It not only helps resolve conflicts, but it allows us to connect with others on a deeper level.
For example…
Building trust, increasing intimacy, setting expectations, and most importantly getting to know each other.
Without it, you may feel alone, insecure, or misunderstood.
And when you’re the only one engaging or making an effort, it can be incredibly painful and frustrating over time.
Ultimately, it shows their lack of understanding, empathy, and emotional support. It’s as if they don’t care.
This is because…
4) They’re Emotionally Distant
Have you ever referred to your partner as your “other half?”
There’s a reason for that.
It means they’re there for you, no matter what. They complete you. Most importantly, you need each other’s support (equally).
However, when you’re in an unbalanced relationship, it’s the exact opposite.
They may be emotionally distant, distracted, or just plain selfish. They may fail to reciprocate the same support you give them, leaving you feeling unsatisfied and rejected.
Anyway, this all points to one thing…
This relationship is one-sided.
5) They’re exhausting to deal with
Being in a relationship is a lot like starting a new business venture – it’s a partnership.
I know, I know, that doesn’t sound very romantic, does it?
But bear with me.
There are joint decisions to be made, compromises to be made, financial resources to be combined, and a good amount of negotiating skills required.
And like any successful business, it takes open communication, dedication, commitment, and teamwork to run smoothly.
If you do it right, you’re an unstoppable unit.
But when you’re in a one-sided relationship, all that goes out the window.
Instead, all that hard work (decisions, plans, intimacy, responsibilities) falls on one person, while the other person is distant, uncompromising, and unwilling to make sacrifices.
Frankly, it’s exhausting to be around them.
That’s because the relationship is unbalanced. And that causes you emotional stress and resentment – in more ways than one.
6) They easily forget their wallet
When you’re in a relationship, it’s natural to share expenses. Maybe, you treat each other now and then.
Eventually, you may even decide to combine resources.
But if you find that you’re the only one contributing to expenses like bills, vacations, date nights, or groceries, there may be a financial imbalance brewing.
What’s more, this unhealthy dynamic signals that the relationship is one-sided.
Even worse, you may be making excuses for them.
But the bottom line is…
If you recognize this or any of the other behaviors mentioned in this article, it’s time to take a step back and ask yourself…
“Is this one-sided relationship worth it?”
Because if the relationship is constantly making you feel unappreciated and unfulfilled, it’s time to put yourself and your well-being first.
At the end of the day, you deserve better.
