Letting Go of Toxic Relationships
According to Saybrook University, “It is obvious that our relationships with others have an impact on our emotional and spiritual self.” However, many individuals are more likely to look inward to find the cause of their unhappiness when there is a possible relationship in their life that is causing many of their problems. While it is important to ask yourself if you are truly happy with your own situation, it is also necessary to look at the relationships in your life and to determine whether or not they are giving you joy or only causing you to be unhappier. If you realize there is a possibility that a relationship in your life it toxic, it is often a good idea to step back and begin to let go of that person.
You are Not a Bad Person
If you step away from someone in your life because the relationship you have with them is hurting you, this does not mean you are a bad person. You are attempting to improve your own life, and having someone in it who constantly causes you pain is not fair to you. If you were ill, you would seek to minimize the symptoms of your illness and, eventually, eradicate that illness from your body. It sounds harsh, but it is important to take care of yourself.
You Do Not Owe an Explanation
Letting go of a toxic relationship isn’t always easy.
If you feel that it would be beneficial to both you and the other individual to explain why you are stepping back from your relationship with them, you may choose to do so, but you do not owe anyone an explanation when it comes to your needs as an individual and your ability to step back from a relationship. Some people may make you feel that you are “abandoning” them, but remember that you are not responsible for anyone’s happiness but your own.
Remember to Follow Through
It can be difficult when someone does not want you to step away from a relationship, but it is important to follow through with your decision. The person may not want you to let go of the relationship, but once you make the decision to do so, it is important that you continue with that decision. Here are some ways to help you follow through when you decide to let go of a toxic relationship:
- Surround yourself with friends and loved ones who are supportive and who make you feel happy.
- Tell the individual that you are not going to be available to talk, or just make a conscious decision not to discuss the relationship with the other individual.
- Participate in activities that make you feel good or happy during the time when you normally would have been with or been focusing on the other individual.
- When or if you feel guilty, ask yourself if you would truly prefer the alternative: that person being back in your life.
Are You Looking for More Advice on How to Let Go of Unhealthy Relationships?
According to the Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, “Improving the… quality of our relationships [among other things] will create a healthier population, society, and workforce.” If you are struggling with ending or letting go of a toxic relationship, call 888-647-0051 (Who Answers?) today for advice and help.
