I choose joy…

Detoxifying Your Life: The Liberating Act of Removing Toxic Relationships

I don’t know if it is just me, but although I’m very reflective, once I make a decision I’m usually cold turkey done with a situation. I stopped smoking in college and just decided not to anymore. I didn’t dwell on it, didn’t miss it, and just went ahead with my life as normal. In the past, if I had a job that made me unhappy, I quit and I’m not ashamed to say it. I knew there was something better destined for me out there. I recently started a health journey and decided to give up alcohol and a few other food groups just like that. I don’t miss it. I don’t dwell on it. So mentally, I recently had a revelation. I decided to choose joy. I hit rock bottom a couple of weeks ago, and after that, I decided to just choose joy. This has been truly the worst year for me and there is a lot going on in my life that can (and did) drag me down if I sit and dwell on it, but I’ve now, just like smoking and food, decided to see the good in every situation and choose joy going forward. This meant removing toxic people out of my close circle or removing myself from situations. Soon after this decision, I did find myself in such a situation (unfortunately I couldn’t leave) and it really hit me that I should not be in that room. But instead of dwelling on it, I breathed out the negativity and let positive thoughts enter. I will know better than to put myself there again, or next time I’ll excuse myself and leave. This is a message I’m teaching my kids as well. If it is not serving you, you should leave.

I know, it sounds so easy and cutthroat right but there are still a few things I had to do in order to get there. I think it comes with age. My younger, people-pleasing self would feel too bad in case I made someone else feel bad. But it feels like I’ve had enough soul-sucking experiences now, to just remove myself.

“You can’t change the people around you, but you can change the people around you” (I don’t know who said this but it is my favorite quote now)

Here are a few ideas on how to detoxify your life:

Relationships:

In the intricate tapestry of life, relationships play a pivotal role in shaping our experiences and influencing our well-being. Just as positive connections can foster growth and happiness, toxic relationships can act as a hindrance, impeding personal development and causing emotional distress. Recognizing the toxicity within relationships and making the decision to remove oneself from such situations is an essential aspect of self-care and personal growth.

Identifying Toxicity:

Toxic relationships can manifest in various forms, ranging from emotional manipulation to constant negativity, disrespect, and even abuse. In the context of personal and professional spheres, toxic individuals can drain one's energy, diminish self-esteem, and create an environment that is detrimental to overall well-being. Recognizing these signs is the first step toward understanding the need for change.

Self-Preservation:

Removing toxic people from one's life is an act of self-preservation. Just as a photographer carefully composes a shot to capture the essence of a moment, individuals must curate their social circles to preserve their mental and emotional well-being. This act requires courage and self-awareness, acknowledging that, in order to thrive, one must be surrounded by positivity and support.

Setting Boundaries:

In some cases, toxicity may not warrant a complete removal from a relationship but rather a reevaluation of boundaries. Establishing clear and healthy boundaries is crucial to maintaining a balanced and respectful connection. A photographer doesn't hesitate to adjust camera settings to achieve the perfect exposure; similarly, individuals must adjust the parameters of their relationships to maintain a healthy equilibrium.

The Ripple Effect:

Removing oneself from toxic relationships not only benefits the individual but can also have a positive ripple effect on those connected to them. Just as a photographer's lens captures a wide scene, the impact of personal choices can extend to friends, family, and even future generations. Breaking the cycle of toxicity sets a precedent for healthier relationships, creating a legacy of emotional well-being.

The Transformation:

Choosing to remove toxic elements from one's life is a transformative process. It involves shedding layers of negativity, self-doubt, and emotional burden. Like a photoshoot that captures the beauty beneath the surface, the act of removing toxic relationships unveils an individual's true potential, allowing for personal growth, resilience, and a renewed sense of self.

So…

In the realm of human connections, the decision to remove toxic people from one's life or distance oneself from toxic situations is an empowering and liberating choice. Just as a skilled photographer frames a shot to tell a story, individuals have the agency to shape the narrative of their lives by curating relationships that contribute positively to their well-being. Embracing this transformative process is not only an act of self-love but also a commitment to fostering a life that is rich in positivity, growth, and genuine connections.