8 types of people that aren’t worth keeping in touch with (no matter how long you’ve known them)

Navigating relationships can be tricky. You meet all sorts of people, some of whom you click with instantly, and others who, well, let’s just say they’re a different story.

The reality is, not everyone we meet is going to be a positive influence in our lives.

In fact, there are certain types of people that you’re better off not keeping in touch with, regardless of how long you’ve known them.

In this article, I’m going to share with you 8 types of people that might be worth reconsidering your connection with.

Let’s get started.

1) Energy vampires

We’ve all met them – those people who seem to suck the life right out of you.

These are the folks who leave you drained after every interaction, always taking and never giving. Their negativity can be infectious, impacting your mood, productivity and overall well-being.

Often, they’re not intentionally harmful. However, their constant need for attention and validation can make you feel like you’re walking on eggshells around them.

It’s a tough decision to cut ties with these people, especially if you’ve known them for a long time. But remember, it’s important to prioritize your mental and emotional health. And sometimes, that means distancing yourself from the energy vampires in your life.

It might seem harsh, but maintaining your personal wellbeing is crucial. After all, we can’t pour from an empty cup.

2) Fair-weather friends

I’m sure you’ve come across this type of person, too. They’re all smiles and support when the sun is out and everything is going well. But the moment things get tough, they’re nowhere to be found.

I remember a time when I was going through a particularly challenging period in my life. I was dealing with personal and professional issues simultaneously. One friend, who I’d known for years, was suddenly elusive. Calls went unanswered, texts ignored, and plans cancelled last minute.

It was a stark contrast to the times when things were good. Back then, we would hang out regularly, sharing laughs and creating memories.

It was a hard pill to swallow, realizing that this person who I thought was my friend was only there for the good times. It taught me a valuable lesson: true friends stick around through both sunshine and storms.

So, if you find yourself with a fair-weather friend, you might want to reconsider if they’re worth keeping in your life. True friendships should offer support and understanding during all seasons – not just when it’s convenient.

3) Constant critics

We all know someone who seems to exist solely to critique and criticize. Nothing is ever good enough, and they have a knack for finding fault in everything.

Constructive criticism is one thing. It can help us grow and improve. But there’s a vast difference between constructive feedback and constant negativity.

Constant negative feedback can have serious consequences. It leads not only to lower morale and self-esteem, but also decreased motivation and productivity.

In other words, being around a persistent critic can do more harm than good. It’s worth considering whether this type of relationship is beneficial or simply holding you back from reaching your full potential.

4) Drama magnets

There’s never a dull moment with these people. They’re constantly surrounded by some sort of drama, and they have a knack for pulling you into it, whether you like it or not.

Their life seems like a never-ending soap opera and they’re always at the center of it. There’s always a crisis, always an issue, always something that demands immediate attention.

Being around such constant turmoil can be exhausting. It can take a toll on your emotional health and may even lead to unnecessary stress and anxiety in your own life.

Life is complicated enough without the added theatrics. If you’ve identified a drama magnet in your social circle, it might be time to reconsider the role they play in your life. Peace of mind is priceless, after all.

5) The unapologetic

We all make mistakes – it’s part of being human. But there’s a particular type of person who never seems to take responsibility for their actions or admit when they’re wrong.

These are the people who refuse to say “I’m sorry,” even when it’s clear they’ve hurt or wronged you. Instead, they twist the narrative, play the victim, or simply ignore the issue altogether.

Apologizing shows maturity, empathy, and respect for others’ feelings. When someone continually refuses to apologize, it can feel like they’re disregarding your feelings and experiences.

It’s a tough realization, especially when this person has been a part of your life for a long time. But relationships are built on mutual respect and understanding. Without these elements, it can be hard to maintain a healthy connection.

It’s okay to step back from people who can’t acknowledge their mistakes. You deserve relationships that make you feel valued and respected.

6) The one-upper

Ever had a conversation with someone who always seems to have a better story, a bigger achievement, or a more extreme experience? That’s a one-upper.

I recall sharing my excitement about a promotion with a friend. Instead of celebrating with me, they immediately launched into a detailed account of their own, more impressive career advancement.

It was a small moment, but it left me feeling deflated rather than uplifted. The joy I wanted to share had been overshadowed by their need to come out on top.

These interactions can leave you feeling invalidated and unimportant. It’s tough competing for the spotlight in your own life.

If you find yourself dealing with a habitual one-upper, it might be time to reconsider the space they occupy in your life. Your achievements, experiences and feelings are valid and deserve to be recognized without comparison.

7) The taker

We all know someone who is always on the receiving end but seldom on the giving. They’re quick to ask for favors, support, or assistance, but when the tables turn, they’re nowhere to be found.

These individuals can leave you feeling used and unappreciated. Relationships are about give and take. If you’re always giving and they’re always taking, it’s not a balanced or healthy relationship.

It’s important to surround yourself with people who value reciprocity. People who are there for you just as much as you are there for them. If there’s a ‘taker’ in your life, you might want to reconsider their place in your circle. You deserve relationships that are mutually beneficial and reciprocal.

8) The manipulator

This is perhaps the most dangerous type of person to keep in your life. Manipulators twist words, situations, and emotions to suit their needs, often at your expense.

They’re masters of guilt trips, playing the victim, and gaslighting. They make you question your feelings and perceptions, leading to confusion and self-doubt.

Remember, manipulation is not a form of love or friendship. It’s a power play designed to control and oppress.

If you recognize a manipulator in your life, it’s crucial to distance yourself from them. Protecting your mental and emotional health should always be your top priority.

Final thoughts: It’s about self-care

The dynamics of human relationships are complex and multifaceted. They hold the power to impact our mood, our outlook on life, and indeed, our overall well-being.

In the end, it’s not about labeling people as ‘good’ or ‘bad’. Everyone has their strengths and weaknesses. However, recognizing the patterns of behavior that negatively impact you is crucial.

Life is too short to spend it surrounded by negativity, drama, or manipulation. Prioritizing your mental and emotional health isn’t selfish – it’s necessary.

Remember this: letting go doesn’t mean you hate someone or wish them harm. It simply means you respect yourself. After all, your peace of mind and happiness should never be compromised for the sake of maintaining a relationship.

Take some time to reflect on your relationships. Are they lifting you up or pulling you down? Your answer may be the key to a healthier and happier life.