7 Ways To Remove Toxic People From Your Life
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Toxicity can wreak havoc on our physical, emotional and psychological well-being, but unfortunately, many of us don’t even know we are in a toxic cesspool or what our triggers to indulge in toxicity are.
Sometimes we do, but we are so consumed by other people's validation, that we lose ourselves in toxic relationships or friendships.
Sometimes we let past pain and experiences define who we are and it allows us to be blinded by change.
So how do we remove ourselves, from the situations, the environment and behaviour, that causes toxicity to our lives?
In this blog post, I’ll share seven ways to remove toxic people from your life, so you can create a more positive and healthy environment for yourself.
1. Identify Toxic Behaviour
First things first, you need to recognise what actually makes someone toxic.
Toxic people often display traits like manipulation, constant negativity, and a lack of empathy.
If you notice that interacting with a particular person leaves you feeling drained, stressed, or unhappy, it’s time to consider if they might be toxic. Identifying these behaviours is the first step in deciding how to handle the relationship.
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2. Set Hard Boundaries
Once you’ve identified the toxic person, it’s crucial to set hard boundaries. Let them know what behaviours are unacceptable and what your limits are.
For example, if a family member is constantly criticising you, tell them that you won’t tolerate negative comments about your life choices.
Setting clear, firm boundaries helps protect your mental health and shows the toxic person that you won’t allow their behaviour to affect you.
Over the years, I’ve realised that even when I don’t want to say no, I have to be honest and just say it—no explanations needed!
I love helping out and being involved, but sometimes my emotions can’t handle it, and sometimes my finances just don't stretch that far.
And you know what? I shouldn’t feel bad about that.
3. Limit Your Interaction
Sometimes, you can't completely remove toxic people from your life, especially if they’re family members or co-workers.
In these cases, try to limit the time you spend with them.
Keep interactions short and stick to necessary topics. If the toxic person is on your social media, consider muting or unfollowing them to reduce their negative influence.
4. Seek Support
Dealing with toxic relationships can be really tough, so don’t hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or a therapist.
Talking to someone who understands what you're going through can provide you with emotional strength and practical advice.
Remember, you don’t have to go through this alone! Lean on others who can offer a fresh perspective and some encouragement.
5. Practice Self-Care
Self-care is super important when dealing with toxic people.
Make time for activities that make you happy and relaxed, whether that’s reading a book, going for a walk, or hanging out with positive people.
Taking care of your mental health will help you stay strong and resilient, making it easier to handle the stress that comes with toxic relationships.
6. Be Assertive
It’s important to be assertive when dealing with a toxic person.
Clearly communicate your needs and feelings without being aggressive.
For example, if someone’s behaviour is bothering you, calmly explain how it affects you and what you need them to change.
Being assertive helps you stand up for yourself and shows the toxic person that you won’t tolerate their behaviour.
7. Know When to Walk Away
Sometimes the best thing you can do is to walk away from a toxic relationship.
If a person continues to disrespect your boundaries and harm your mental health, it might be time to cut ties completely.
Ending a toxic relationship is never easy, but sometimes it’s necessary for your own well-being. Trust yourself and do what’s best for you.
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Final Thoughts
Removing toxic people from your life is challenging but crucial for your mental health and overall happiness.
By recognising toxic behaviour, setting boundaries, limiting interaction, seeking support, practicing self-care, being assertive, and knowing when to walk away, you can create a healthier, more positive environment for yourself.
But remember, it’s also important to balance this with accepting people for who they are. Not everyone will fit neatly into our expectations, and that’s okay!
Sometimes, understanding and accepting someone’s flaws—while maintaining healthy boundaries—can lead to more meaningful relationships. It’s all about finding the right balance for your mental health and happiness.
I hope this article helps you take the steps you need to remove toxic people from your life while also fostering a mindset of acceptance and understanding.
You deserve to be surrounded by people who support and uplift you. If you have any experiences or tips to share, please leave a comment below. xx
