In August of 2023, the Cleveland Clinic published "How to Identify and Address Breadcrumbing. Some of you may have never heard of this term. Unfortunately, it has become a common term in our society; such as gaslighting and ghosting.
Let's define the term first. Breadcrumbing is when someone gives someone just enough attention to keep them interested in the relationship. Some signs that someone may be breadcrumbing in a relationship include sporadic and inconsistent communication, making promises they never follow through on, and constantly keeping the other person guessing about their intentions and level of commitment. Breadcrumbing is a manipulative tactic that can leave the other person feeling confused, used, and emotionally drained. Does any of this sound familiar?
What should you do if you suspect you are being someone who is breadcrumbing you? If you suspect someone is breadcrumbing you, it's important to confront them about their behavior and express your concerns. Communicate your expectations for the relationship and ask for clarity on their intentions and commitments. Suppose they continue to engage in breadcrumbing behavior despite your efforts to address it. In that case, it may be best to end the relationship. Start focusing on finding someone who values your time and emotions.
What is the emotional toll of breadcrumbing? Breadcrumbing can have significant long-term effects on a person's emotional well-being. Constantly being kept in a state of uncertainty and confusion can erode self-esteem and self-worth, leading to feelings of inadequacy and insecurity. It can also make it difficult for individuals to trust others and form healthy, meaningful relationships in the future. Breadcrumbing can leave a lasting impact on a person's mental and emotional health, making it crucial to recognize and address this manipulative behavior.
Are you guilty of breadcrumbing? Yes, I have experienced breadcrumbing in the past. It was a difficult and confusing time, but I eventually found the strength to confront the person and end the relationship. Since then, I have been more cautious about who I invest my time and emotions in. I have learned to prioritize my well-being and seek relationships built on trust, consistency, and open communication. It takes time and effort, but building healthy relationships. In the end, it is worth it.
Link to Article: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/breadcrumbing
Interesting. I've never heard of this term before, but I definitely have experienced it. In any event, I have time boundaries. When I am communicating with a respective love interest and he doesn't live in my state, I give him three months to make a committed plan for us to meet, especially if our conversations have been intriguing and there's a mutual vibe. Not me coming to him, but rather he coming to me! If he has pasted the three month mark, I decrease my communications; the phone calls are no longer initiated, but rather I will return his calls. I've learned that guys will string you along while the continue to fish in the sea. Ain't nobody got tim…