Let go of toxic friends and family
We encounter multiple relationships in life — some uplifting, while others can be draining and toxic. Toxic relationships, whether they are romantic, or familial, can have a detrimental effect on our mental and emotional well-being. Recognizing and addressing these toxic effects or traits is crucial for our personal growth and overall happiness.
What is detachment?
Detachment is the feeling that you have of not being personally or emotionally involved in someone or a situation. It means to mentally break apart. If we remain attached to something or someone who is giving us negativity or pain, we must know how to regulate our emotions. This creates misery and unhappiness.
Why is detachment so important?
If you are attached to someone or something you allow that thing to control you. It can make you feel any type of way, but that simply means you’re powerless over yourself and your emotions. You see that attachment as the only thing you can hang onto and it also does not allow you to move on in your life. Sometimes it’s hard to let go of that toxic environment. It’s painful. Most of the pain comes from you just not wanting to let go of the pain you’re gonna feel, which is letting them go. So to let go, we need to completely detach.
You need to realise that certain people that come into your life have a purpose
Whether it was a good relationship or not, they are meant to elevate you. They make you realise a lot of things about yourself and them. When a relationship comes to an end, think of it as you did your purpose and so did the other person. Then you guys are meant to separate because they were only there for that time. It then becomes easier to not attach yourself to those people because you see that they add value.
Don’t be afraid to detach from family or friends
You have to be real to yourself and you need to understand that it’s extremely difficult to be around people who are constantly letting you down. It’s extremely difficult to heal from the same people who traumatize you. If you feel like the environment is not loving or supportive then it’s toxic. Most of the time we don’t let go of the people who traumatized us because that’s all we ever have left is to be able to hold on to it
However, you need to realise that you are in more control than you believe. You have to live your life the way you want to. Someday they are going to leave or you’re going have to leave them. We know it’s easier said than done but you’re in control and have the power to leave your situation anytime.
These are the signs to tell if the relationship you’re in with someone is a bit (or very) toxic:
1) Disrespect: This can vary from putting someone down, saying things that make them uncomfortable, embarrassing someone, or just justified criticism. Respect is a mutual necessity for a good relationship.
2) Resentment: This is the agonizing feeling of what is usually anger that you get when you have been mistreated. In a relationship, you need to learn how to forgive.
3) Controlling: These behaviours can be stemmed from a lack of trust and jealousy or just the straight-up entitlement one might feel they have on you.
4) Gaslighting: If you’re unfamiliar with the term gaslighting, it is a way to manipulate someone to the point where they begin to doubt their instincts or sanity. If you don’t see a problem with this…seek HELP (immediately).
Recognize the signs:
Awareness is the first step towards change. Educate yourself about the signs of toxic relationships, such as manipulation, constant criticism, lack of boundaries, and emotional abuse. Trust your instincts — if something feels off, it probably is.
Here are some strategies for dealing with toxic relationships and friendships:
Create distance:
Distance yourself from these people. Once you learn to distance yourself from these toxic people and environments you will be able to reclaim your peace.
Set Boundaries:
These people get so attached and comfortable with you catering to them and that’ll make them treat you any kind of way they want and that’s why it’s important to set boundaries. Setting healthy boundaries is essential for maintaining your mental and emotional health. Communicate your needs and limits to the other person, and be prepared to enforce them. Remember that it’s okay to say no and prioritize your well-being.
Practice Self-Care:
Do the things you love. You’re deprived of love and that love comes from you. You have to find yourself again. Make self-care a priority in your life. Engage in activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul, whether exercising, meditating, spending time with loved ones, or partaking in your favourite hobbies. Taking care of yourself empowers you to handle toxic relationships more effectively. Do the things that make you flourish, we guarantee that’ll make you feel better.
Seek Support:
Don’t be scared to reach out to trusted friends, family members, or a therapist for support. Talking to someone who understands and knows your experiences can provide invaluable perspective and guidance. You don’t have to navigate through difficult times alone.
Evaluate the Relationship:
Assess the impact of the relationship on your life. Consider whether the positives outweigh the negatives or if the toxicity is too overwhelming to endure. Sometimes, letting go of toxic relationships is the healthiest choice you can make for yourself.
Practice Affirmation:
Stand up for yourself and affirm your needs assertively but respectfully. Use “I” statements to express how you feel and set clear boundaries. Avoid blaming or attacking the other person, as this may escalate conflict.
Focus on Personal Growth:
Use your experiences in toxic relationships as opportunities for personal growth and self-reflection. What have you learned about yourself and your boundaries? How can you use this knowledge to cultivate healthier relationships in the future?
Forgive Yourself:
It’s important to forgive yourself for staying in a toxic relationship longer than you should have or for any mistakes you may have made. Remember that you’re only human, and we all make errors in judgement. Be kind to yourself and focus on moving forward.
Our final advice
Get a life. This sounds harsh but it’s the truth. How can you constantly be focused on someone else? As if you have nothing to do with the life you have. Learn something new or try a new hobby. This person you’re so attached to is not your whole life. They don’t add worth because you define your worth. Is it stressing you out? Do you feel miserable? Are you under pressure? YOU HAVE TO LET GO. You’re doing more than enough.
Toxic people will do anything to you and get very comfortable with you and think you need to stick around for longer and you develop that mindset as well because you’re consuming the negative energy but that’s not healthy. Instead, you need to find a way to completely separate and do whatever it is that allows you to grow in life. Simply wish the best to the people that you love and separate yourself from them.
If we do tell someone we love them, then we DO LOVE THEM which is something that’ll never change. However, the love we have for them is not bondage. To the person you still love and hold dear to but is very toxic. Wish them the best and completely let go. A toxic relationship is not the balance you need in life.
Dealing with toxic relationships can be challenging, but it’s a necessary step towards reclaiming your power and living a more fulfilling life. Remember that you are worthy of healthy, supportive relationships, and don’t settle for anything less.
