Party Of Three

So your two besties are getting real close...

and you’re standing there like a spare part.

Cool cool cool. (Not cool.)

Let’s be real: feeling like the third wheel sucks. It’s awkward, it’s lonely, and sometimes it makes you question if you even belong anymore.
Spoiler: you do. But that doesn’t mean it doesn’t hurt.

Here’s what you need to know when you’re stuck in third-wheel territory:

1. You're Not Crazy (or Overreacting)

You’re allowed to feel left out.
You’re allowed to feel annoyed.
You’re allowed to wish you didn’t have to pretend like you’re totally fine watching them have their inside jokes while you just... exist.

Your feelings are real. Don’t gaslight yourself about it.

2. Before You Burn It All Down...

Take a breath.
Ask yourself:

• Has it always been like this?

• Or is it just a weird phase?

• Is there still space for you when it’s just the two of you?

Sometimes friendships shift for a bit (new crushes, new hobbies, new classes) and then balance out again.
Sometimes they don’t. It’s worth figuring out which one this is before you start a full friendship breakup.

3. Say Something (Before You Snap)

You don’t have to go full “Why do you hate me?” meltdown… You can say something simple like:

"Hey, I’ve been feeling kinda left out lately. Can we make sure we still get some time just us?"

If they care about you, they’ll listen.
If they act like you’re being "too sensitive," that says a LOT.

4. Make Room for New Energy

If you’re always the backup plan? If you always feel like a "plus one" to their friendship?
You deserve better.

It’s okay to start putting energy into other friendships, new groups, activities you love.
You’re not abandoning them — you’re just making sure you’re not stuck somewhere you feel small.

Final Thought

If it feels like you have to fight for a seat at the table, maybe it’s time to build your own.
You’re not an afterthought. You’re the main character. Don’t forget it. 🌟

— Mia 🌸