You only get one life. Are you gonna live it for you OR for that toxic person committed to extinguishing the truth of who you are?

(Open this if ur struggling with/are unsure if you're in a toxic relationship) /1

I've had my fair share of toxic relationships with people who claimed to love and care about me. But the moment I began making decisions that were in favor of my life (which loosened their grip of control over me) it became a problem. /2

They would say the problem was me. And I believed them which led to years of berating myself and dimming my light to keep them happy. I kept them happy but found myself in a cage of depression, insecurity, and shame which halted my growth and numbed my dreams. /3

Healthy relationships are a two way street of mutual respect, support, loyalty, honesty, and love.

If it's only one way, it's toxic. /4

If you're walking on eggshells around someone--If you're always bending to please and consider them but ur feelings and needs are continuously ignored--If being around them doesn't feel good, then the relationship is toxic. /5

My life was passing me by because my loyalty and devotion to the relationship had become my badge of honor. My source of worthiness. A prideful reflection of my character.

The real problem was it became more important than my loyalty and devotion to me. Read that again. /6

If you recognize you're in a toxic relationship with a lover, friend, family member, even work, then I encourage you to break those chains as soon as you can. The light of your life depends on it. /7

Yes relationships are work BUT it should be fulfilling work. Work that evolves both parties.

It's okay to set boundaries and ask for what you need to feel valued and safe. If someone doesn't wanna respect it, let them go. You can do better! You're worthy of better! /8

You only get one life. Don't live it for that toxic person committed to extinguishing the truth of who you are. Live it for YOU! /end