Lately, the term “low maintenance” is often thrown around as a badge of honor in friendships. It signifies an easygoing and undemanding relationship. But are these seemingly carefree low-maintenance friendships genuinely healthy or might they be just a tad bit toxic?
The Appeal of Low Maintenance Friendships
Low-maintenance friendships are seemingly attractive, especially to women who are always very busy. With careers, personal goals, and relationships to juggle, the idea of having friends who don’t add to the chaos is appealing. They require minimal effort, which allows everyone involved to live their lives in whatever capacity they please without feeling burdened.
The Dark Side of Low-Maintenance
The concept of low-maintenance friendships may seem like a breath of fresh air. However, you should acknowledge the potential downsides. In some cases, the lack of effort may translate to a lack of emotional investment. Friends can become disconnected, leading to superficial connections that lack depth.
Shallow Communication
In low-maintenance friendships, conversations often remain surface level. Discussions might revolve around daily activities or shared interests but rarely touch upon deeper emotions or personal challenges.
Absence in Times of Need
When life starts lifing for us, we tend to turn to our friends for a shoulder to lean on. Low-maintenance friendships, however, may not be of use during these times. The lack of emotional investment can result in friends being absent when needed the most. This, in turn, leaves people feeling alone when they need support.
Unacknowledged Growth
In healthy friendships, personal growth is celebrated and friends actively contribute to each other’s journeys. In low-maintenance friendships, this acknowledgment or even realization of growth may not exist. When people evolve, their low-maintenance friends may simply be oblivious to the changes, which can in tun make the individual feel overlooked.
Striking a Balance
While it’s important to recognize the possibility of toxicity in low-maintenance friendships, it’s equally crucial to strike a balance that fosters genuine connections without becoming overwhelming. Here are a few tips for creating healthier relationships.
Foster Open Communication
Encourage open and honest conversations with your friends. Share your thoughts, feelings, and aspirations, and encourage them to do the same. This helps build a foundation of trust and understanding.
Prioritize Quality Over Quantity
Focus on the quality of your friendships rather than the quantity. Invest time and effort into the relationships that truly matter. It’s important to make sure they are fulfilling and supportive.
Be Present in Times of Need
Make an effort to be there for your friends during challenging moments. Offer a listening ear, emotional support, and advice when needed.
To Have a Low-Maintenance Friendship or Not
Low-maintenance friendships, when balanced with genuine care and communication, can be valuable. However, you should always be mindful of the possibility that minimal effort can turn into emotional detachment. Creating and maintaining healthy and meaningful connections requires a continuous effort to prioritize authenticity and support in your relationships.