A red flag you're dealing with selfish people

It's normal to put yourself first every now and then. After all, if we constantly bend over for everyone but ourselves -- the demanding boss, the friend who's always broke -- our well-being will eventually take a major nosedive.

The people we have to be especially wary of the ones who take, take, take -- but never give back.

Relationships are about scratching each other's back. But this doesn't necessarily mean they always have to be 50/50.

There will be times where one person is more in need than the other, whether they're struck with an unexpected illness, they lose a loved one, or they get fired from work.

We all have to contend with adversity at different points in our lives, and we often turn to friends and family for support.

But what if they fail to accommodate you even after we've been there for them countless times?

It should be an indication that they're in it for themselves.

I can understand their not being able to lend you money each and every time you request it, or not being available to pick you up from the airport each time you land.

But declining your every request -- let alone never answering your calls or texts when you've communicated that you're the one who needs a hand this time -- sends a clear message. And that message is, "I don't care."

When it becomes apparent your time and effort aren't being reciprocated -- and will never be -- it can be a huge let-down, especially if it's someone we've come to trust and respect.

You really don't know who your true friends are until you're facing hard times. Those who stand behind you are keepers, while the ones who bolt show themselves to be selfish to the bone.

Do you really want the latter in your life? I certainly do not.

The good thing is that, at the end of the day, we don't need a wide circle of close friends and confidantes. Three to five special, reliable individuals is more than sufficient.

Refuse to be used. If you're dealing with someone who doesn't agree that relationships are a two-way street, you may want to nix them from your life.

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