“The Hidden Signs You’re in a One-Sided Relationship”

Relationships are supposed to be balanced, supportive, and rewarding—but what if you're the one always giving and receiving little in return?

Even if you're not alone, a one-sided relationship can drain you emotionally and leave you feeling unheard, unappreciated, and alone.But how do you know if you're in one? The following is a list of the subtle clues that your relationship may be one-sided, as well as what you can do about it. 1. Everything is always initiated by you. Do you always need to be the one to:

???? What about the dates?

???? Text or call first? ???? Put in the effort to maintain the conversation? If you cut back on trying, does the relationship just fall silent?

???? Red Flag: They aren't as interested in you as you are if you're the only one keeping the connection. ???? What to Do: Discontinue initiating. Wait and see if they respond. If not, it's an eye-opener.

2. They Only Call or Text When They Need Something

Do they neglect you for days or weeks—then reach out suddenly when they:

???? Do you need anything from me?

???? Are you seeking emotional assistance? ???? Don't have anyone else to call?

???? Red Flag: They only come around when it's convenient for them. You're not their priority—you're their backup option.

???? What to do: Keep an eye on their routines. Do they leave you when you require something from them, yet assume you're there for them? If that's the case, it's time to rethink the relationship. 3. Your efforts do not bear fruit. Do you go above and beyond to:???? They remember your birthday, but they don't remember yours? ???? Support their goals, but they never ask about yours?

???? Listen to their problems, but when you talk, they stop listening? ???? A red flag: Relationships should be about giving and receiving, not giving and giving. ???? What to Do: Start matching their energy. If they don’t make an effort for you, stop overextending yourself for them.

4. You Feel Like You’re Walking on Eggshells

Do you:

???? It's a red flag if you keep trying to change to stay good with them instead of the other way around, which is unhealthy. ???? What to Do: Your emotions count. It's time to have a serious conversation if they dismiss your feelings or make you feel bad for sharing them. 5. They're Emotionally Unavailable

Do they:

???? Maintain a light tone and steer clear of contentious topics. When you express your emotions, do you shut down or deflect? ???? Have trouble being vulnerable or sharing their feelings?

???? Red Flag: Emotional intimacy is essential in a healthy relationship. If they shut you out emotionally, there's distance and frustration.

???? What to do: If they won't open up to you or meet halfway, you need to ask yourself if you're okay with a superficial relationship.

6. They make you feel bad for needing something. Do they:

???? Call you "needy" when you need more time or attention?

???? Play annoyed when you show that you feel ignored.

???? Spin things so that it looks like you're the issue?

???? Emotional manipulation is when they repeatedly make you feel like you're asking for too much when all you're really asking for is basic relationship respect. ???? What to Do: Remain firm on your requirements. A healthy partner won't gaslight you for needing love, attention, and care.

7. You Feel Drained Rather Than Energized

When you're in a good relationship, you should feel:

✔️ Loved

✔️ Valued

✔️ Secure

Instead, you might feel:

❌ Drained after every interaction

❌ Unappreciated regardless of how much you do

As though you're doing everything in the relationship, then something is seriously wrong.

???? Red Flag: Relationships shouldn't be like job interviews in which you constantly try to "prove" your value. ???? What to Do: Stand back. Get real with yourself: Would they battle for me like I do for them? If not, it's time to rethink it.

8. They Don't Cheer You On

A proper partner should be your biggest fan.

However, if they:???? denigrate your accomplishments or display lack of interest???? deflect whenever you receive good news. ???? buzz only about theirs

???? Red Flag: It's a red flag if they don't celebrate you but want you to celebrate them. ???? What to Do: Surround yourself with people who truly care about your success. If they can't be happy for you, they don't deserve you.

9. With them, you feel more alone than without. One of the biggest signs of a one-sided relationship?

You feel more isolated being with them than you do alone.

???? A red flag: A healthy relationship should not make you feel more alone; rather, it should add value to your life. ???? What to Do: If having them around you feels like more of an emotional weight than something that comforts you, that means it's time to release.

???? What to Do: Release the "what ifs." Think about it:???? Do I feel valued in this relationship?

???? Am I actually happy, or simply comfortable?

???? What would I say to someone who treated my best friend this way? You probably already know what to do. Final Thoughts: You Deserve More

If any of these symptoms ring painfully close to you, it's time to ask yourself:???? Is this relationship facilitating my development or merely draining me? ???? Do I get the love I deserve, or am I just settling? A real, healthy relationship should feel balanced, safe, and fulfilling.

If you're stuck in a one-sided situation, don't be afraid to walk away.

The right person won't make you struggle for basic respect and love—they'll share it with you freely.

And believe me—you deserve that.