Best Friends For Never – End Toxic Friendships

Originally coined by American comedian Joey Adams, this line has resonated with, probably, millions. But, really. If your friends are anything but helpful, honest, and supportive, why stick around?

Real friends like to see their loved ones get ahead in life. If you've got a toxic friend, chances are they're going to try with all of their might to bury you. Who needs that?

The 2011 film starring Leighton Meester and Minka Kelly opens on Sara, a college freshman, meeting her roommate, Rebecca. However, Rebecca develops an obsession with Sara and tries to become, quite literally, her.

This is a sign of a toxic friendship. The toxic friend, usually fuelled by jealousy, will try to copy his/her friend to eventually out do them or blacken their name. This way, the toxic friend can be deemed "better." These can be either physical changes, changes to their speech patterns/slang, or picking up their friend's activities/ hobbies. The goal is to assert dominance and to outshine their friends in all they do.

People pretend well. Whether they lie in an attempt to keep the peace - white lies - or to do damage, most are exceptional at masking their intentions. Toxic friends are masters at pretending - much like actors. So, once discovered, give those toxic friends a round of applause for their Oscar-worthy performances.

Sure, it's another acting reference, but toxic friends are excellent at manipulation. They've learned all of this information about you and know exactly how to pull at your heartstrongs. Fell bad for them because they seem genuinely sorry for telling your major secret/ hooking up with your love interest/ lying/ their rotten mood? Don't. They know how to play their game - don't stay wrapped around their little finger.