Moving on From a Toxic Relationship
“No one tells you how peaceful life can be when you choose yourself!”
In this blog, we'll explore how to move on from a toxic relationship, setting boundaries to stay free from toxic influences, and overcome the weight of emotional abuse that often follows such experiences.
I Struggled to Move on from Toxic Relationships in My Past
Breaking up is never easy, especially when you're moving on from a toxic relationship. Even though you know it's the right choice, severing ties with someone who has been a significant part of your life and heart can be incredibly challenging. Emotional attachment, fear of loneliness, financial dependence, or the hope that your partner will change can all act as powerful anchors, keeping you tethered to a harmful situation.
I know firsthand how difficult it can be to break free from this cycle. During law school, I was caught in a toxic relationship that seemed impossible to escape. Every time my boyfriend did something hurtful, I found an excuse to stay—usually tied to some upcoming trip or financial obligation. I would tell myself, "After this trip, I'll finally break up with him and be done for good." But when the trip ended, we'd inevitably have another fight, and his grand apologies would pull me back in.
Looking back, I realize I was using those trips as an excuse because I was scared to leave. I naively believed that if I waited long enough, he might change. But the truth is, people only change when they want to—and he had shown me repeatedly that he had no interest in changing for me or himself.
Although it can be painful at first, it will get easier with time. Allow yourself space to process what you've been through.
Once I finally freed myself from that toxic attachment, life became so much more enjoyable and easy.
If you're struggling to move on from a toxic relationship, ask yourself: What excuse is your mind creating to keep you stuck in that situation?
You deserve peace, happiness, and a future free from toxic influences. You don't have to live like this.
Setting Boundaries to Remain Free from Toxic Influences
Before jumping into another relationship, it is important to take time to reflect on what your needs are going forward. Nothing is worse than freeing yourself from one toxic situation to end up in another.
The best way to stay free and clear of toxic influences is by enforcing your boundaries and allowing yourself the opportunity to get to know people before they have access to you physically and emotionally. While it may seem daunting to communicate your boundaries, you won't know if someone can meet your expectations until you give them the chance.
Identify Your Limits: Know your emotional, physical, and mental boundaries to communicate them effectively.
Communicate Clearly: Express your boundaries honestly and directly using "I" statements, like "I feel uncomfortable when..."
Be Assertive: Stand firm in your boundaries without guilt or apology, prioritizing your well-being and self-respect.
Overcoming Emotional Abuse
Although your relationship was toxic, you should celebrate that you had the strength to leave. And at the same time, it is ok to allow yourself to grieve the loss of your past relationship! Recognizing and accepting what you went through is the first step toward overcoming emotional abuse. Healing is a gradual process so be patient with yourself. Allow yourself to feel and process your emotions at your own pace. Remember that you don’t have to do it alone. Establish a Support System that can offer support and encouragement. Isolation can make it harder to heal, so having a strong support network is crucial.
If you want help recognizing red flags, trusting your intuition, and moving on from toxic relationships, click here to apply for my 1-1 coaching program!
If you want to learn more about recognizing the signs of a toxic partner, read my blog post here!
