I don’t cut off people. If I’ve ever distanced myself, it was because I was overwhelmed and didn’t handle it well. Sometimes I think people distance themselves from me when my mental health isn’t at its best and I've probably pushed the buttons. I know everyone has their own battles, and I can be a lot when I’m overwhelmed.

Honestly, more than I’d like to even acknowledge. And it was a lengthy and painful process because many forced my hand by their own actions. That was back when I had trouble letting go of people I cared about though. When I cared more about not hurting those who constantly hurt me because I felt like I didn’t deserve the level of respect and love I gave others. These days are different. I’ll spot toxicity and patterns much quicker because I have my priorities and self-respect calibrated better. I’ll unapologetically disconnect and discard those who are misaligned with me but are headstrong in trying to prove they’re not, ingenuine about their intentions in getting close to me, and deliberate in projecting pain/hate/games for their own entertainment. I’ll exit their orbit gracefully without looking back once as I go about the journey I’ve deemed too precious to waste on anything or anyone that tries to dull my shine.

I am careful to whom I consider a close friend in the first place . If I feel I am being ignored I will distance myself real fast and move on . I don't have the patience anymore for flakiness ...If I am discarded I will discard right back. Maybe that is harsh but I need to look out for myself .

"special closer friend connections".. lol, what does that mean. Using people and not having to commit?

I don't get close often and I don't discard people. But now, as I get older, I just distance myself from everyone. It all feels so exhausting. I'd rather run with the wolves. 🐺

Got married and any friends went away - no loss at all

Still married for 45years and 6 months

I don't discard people, I do make myself less available if I notice a change in behaviour from their side.

None. I do not treat my friends like that.

Several. Sometimes we have to move on.

No discarding
Just more space and quietness from me if I sense a shift in them

One. I will immediately shut down on someone when they act funny with me & not have the guts to talk to me about it.

That's not how it went.

Don't know why I would discard "special closer friend connections". Sounds like the will of a sociopath.