Breadcrumbing happens when someone gives you small signals or messages to keep you interested but never actually takes things forward. Think of it like someone leaving a trail of breadcrumbs for you to follow, but the trail never leads anywhere meaningful.

For example:

• They text you, but only occasionally and without much effort.
• They say they want to meet, but it never actually happens.
• They like your posts or stories on social media, but they don’t have proper conversations with you.

It’s like they’re trying to keep you in their life without putting in real effort.

Signs You’re Being Breadcrumbed

If any of this sounds familiar, you might be dealing with breadcrumbing:

1. Random Texts: They message you once in a while with “Hey, what’s up?” or “Thinking of you” but don’t follow it up with real conversations.
2. No Plans: They say things like “We should catch up soon” but never make plans to meet.
3. Flirting Without Action: They flatter you or flirt but never move beyond words.
4. Mixed Signals: Some days, they seem super interested; other days, they go silent.
5. Social Media Games: They like your Instagram posts or comment on your stories, but that’s the extent of their effort.

Why Do People Breadcrumb?

Breadcrumbing often has more to do with the person doing it than with you. Here are some common reasons:

1. Attention-Seeking: They like the attention and validation you give them.
2. Fear of Commitment: They want to keep things casual and avoid deeper involvement.
3. Keeping Options Open: They might not want to settle with one person but still want you around.
4. Confusion: Sometimes, they’re unsure about their feelings and end up sending mixed signals.

How Breadcrumbing Affects You

Breadcrumbing can leave you feeling frustrated and unsure. You might find yourself checking your phone for their messages or wondering what you did wrong. It can even hurt your confidence over time.

What You Can Do

If you feel like you’re being breadcrumbed, here’s how to handle it:

1. Set Boundaries: Decide what behavior is okay for you and what isn’t. Don’t settle for crumbs when you deserve the whole loaf.
2. Look at Actions, Not Words: Focus on what they actually do, not just what they say.
3. Value Yourself: Spend time with people who genuinely care for you and prioritize your happiness.
4. Walk Away: If you feel they’re wasting your time, it’s okay to cut ties. Your time and energy are precious.
5. Talk It Out: If you’re unsure, ask them directly about their intentions. A clear conversation can save you from a lot of confusion.

Conclusion