A toxic relationship is a harmful and unhealthy relationship that negatively affects one’s mental, emotional, and sometimes physical well-being. It often involves manipulation, control, or other forms of mistreatment.

7 signs you may be in a toxic relationship with yourself:

1. Constant self-criticism and negative self-talk
2. Comparing yourself to others, leading to feelings of envy or inadequacy
3. Ignoring or dismissing your own needs and feelings
4. Perfectionism, never feeling satisfied with your achievements
5. Engaging in self-destructive behaviors (e.g., unhealthy eating habits, substance abuse)
6. Difficulty in setting or maintaining boundaries with others
7. Procrastination and avoidance of responsibilities

This may have started due to various reasons such as upbringing, past experiences, or societal pressures. You may not have noticed it earlier because it has become a deeply ingrained pattern.

Noticing these signs in others might indicate that you have it in you, as we often project our own insecurities and judgments onto others.

To get out of a toxic relationship with yourself:

1. Develop self-awareness by reflecting on your thoughts and behaviors
2. Practice self-compassion and self-love
3. Set realistic goals and accept imperfections
4. Seek therapy or support from friends, family, or support groups
5. Prioritize self-care and maintain healthy boundaries

A mentally healthy adult is emotionally balanced, resilient, and capable of maintaining healthy relationships. It is important to work towards becoming one to achieve overall well-being and a more fulfilling life.

5 great questions to kick start your journey to change and a healthier relationship with yourself:

1. What are my core beliefs about myself, and are they based on truth or fiction?
2. What patterns of self-talk or self-criticism do I engage in, and how can I challenge them?
3. How can I better prioritize self-care and establish healthy boundaries?
4. What are my personal values, and how can I align my actions with them?
5. In what ways can I practice self-compassion and cultivate a positive mindset?

You may also wish to consider these additional steps

• Journal your thoughts and emotions: Regularly writing about your experiences can help you gain insight into your thought patterns and emotions, making it easier to identify areas for growth and change.
• Develop a growth mindset: Embrace the idea that you are capable of learning and growing from challenges, setbacks, and mistakes. This mindset can help you become more resilient and adaptive to change.
• Surround yourself with supportive people: Establish relationships with individuals who encourage and uplift you, rather than those who contribute to negative self-talk or perpetuate toxic behaviors.
• Set achievable goals: Break down your larger goals into smaller, manageable steps. This can help you build self-confidence and maintain motivation as you work towards personal growth.
• Engage in hobbies and activities that bring joy and fulfillment: Pursue interests that make you happy and allow you to express your creativity, as this can contribute to your overall well-being and self-esteem.
• Mindfulness and meditation: Regular practice of mindfulness techniques or meditation can help you stay present, cultivate self-awareness, and manage stress more effectively.
• Celebrate your accomplishments: Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. Recognizing your progress is essential in building a healthy relationship with yourself.
• Seek professional help if needed: If you are struggling to make progress or feel overwhelmed, consider seeking the help of a mental health professional, such as a therapist or counselor, to provide guidance and support.

Remember, building a healthier relationship with yourself is an ongoing process. Be patient, kind, and understanding with yourself as you work on personal growth and self-improvement.