How do I deal with the fact that my friends always forget me?

My friends tell me I should tag along to events, but they never invite me. I play frisbee golf with my friends but most start walking before I’ve thrown my shot.
Asked by Alex
Answered
06/17/2022

It seems as if your relationship with your friends is not fulfilling and you feel left out of the friend group. You seem ignored by your friends and probably wonder if you are even a part of the friend group. I wonder how long have you been friends with this group? Are there people within the group that you feel closer to or distant from?

I define friends as people that I like to spend time with and who also seem to enjoy my company. I have had friends that I love and I am concerned about their well being. I define friendships as a mutually beneficial relationship. Friends are and should be there in the good times and the bad times. Friends should also care about how their behaviors affect each other.

Your question is "How do I deal with the fact that my friends always forget me?" I'd first suggest that you look at how you define friends. Are friends people that you like to spend time with, that enjoy your company, and that you can trust? Relationships, in general are complicated and not easily understood. Relationships can be both rewarding and cause stress. Relationships involve the blending of characteristics and qualities, both good and bad.

I also wonder if you are "closer" to some friends in your group than others. Sometimes people have "best friends" that they spend more time with and tell more intimidate details of their lives with. I also wonder if you are a good friend that cares about the people that you associate with, love them, trust them, and want the best for them?

I would ask each friend individual why they always seem to forget you and listen to their responses. If they laugh it off, ignore it, or don't take your feelings into consideration, I would consider finding a new friend group. You may be shy, awkward, or seek to avoid confrontation. I would listen to what they have to say and see if they are willing to change their behaviors. If they are not, I would consider distancing myself from those who choose not to change their behaviors and spend more time with your friends that meet your definition of friends.

I hope that this was helpful, take care of yourself. I think you have to know what you want in a friend, discuss your expectations, give them time to meet the expectation, and consider meeting new friends that will meet your expectations.