When we start a relationship – of any kind, not just romantic – we are looking for loyalty while simultaneously promising our own. Loyalty is a quality that we admire in others, and it makes us feel good when we know someone has pledged their commitment to us. There are circumstances, however, that unconditional loyalty is dangerous.

First of all, what do we understand of loyalty? What does it imply? The dictionary defines the word as: “1. The state or quality of being loyal; faithfulness to commitments or obligations; 2. Faithful adherence to a sovereign, government, leader, cause, etcetera; 3. An example or instance of faithfulness adherence, or the like." Therefore, loyalty means giving our “faithfulness" or devotion to someone or even something. Loyalty also spans time and hardship. Some examples of unconditional loyalty include believing every word or argument from a person and a willingness to do anything they ask of you. Loyalty is often one-sided with the giver being left behind or alone.

Believing Everything

When loyalty is involved, you tend to trust blindly in that person, government, or cause. You accept what they say – and even do – as the ultimate truth because you could never expect them to lie. This may become dangerous because it means you may struggle in critically thinking about the words or actions. You may also ignore warnings from others. To avoid this, remind yourself that you can pledge your loyalty without sacrificing your beliefs and without ignoring your moral convictions.

Willingness to Do Anything They Ask

Sometimes, people believe being loyal means doing and agreeing with everything that is asked of you without asking questions. For example, under certain regimes, soldiers said they followed instructions because they believed in the cause. Admirable loyalty does not mean doing everything others tell you to do without asking questions or demanding explanations. Admiral loyalty allows you to refuse to do certain things or ask critical questions.

One-Sided Loyalty

Unconditional loyalty becomes most dangerous when it is one-sided. It is devastating to become loyal to someone, trust them, and believe in them only to realize that loyalty is not reciprocated. All the trust and belief is one-sided. Make sure that whoever you are loyal to is willing to be loyal to you as well to ensure that you’re not being left behind or alone

It is dangerous when that unconditional loyalty results in you being left behind or alone. Remember to always acknowledge your support system, even when you find someone or something you decide to give your loyalty to.

Loyalty is a required quality for any type of relationship to work out. You need the trust and faithfulness that comes with it. However, you should not believe in one thing someone says as the ultimate truth unless it is proven. Make sure to always ask questions or demand explanations. Do not put in all the effort, the other person should too. And do not forget about others just because you are loyal to someone or something. Pledge your loyalty because it is a great thing but do not jeopardize who you are for others.