Let it go.

Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash

I’ve been proud of myself lately, especially in how I handle my relationships.

I can now decide to stop talking to someone who’s hurt me without needing to ask anyone if it’s “okay.”

I’m in my own head, I know what’s right, and I no longer need validation to keep people close when I know they wouldn’t do the same for me.

You don’t have to be my friend for me to clock you out. Acquaintance, old pal, even a friend’s friend. I know the difference between disrespect and a simple mistake. I know when to give grace and when it’s time to walk away.

It wasn’t always this easy. For the longest time, I couldn’t even admit when I was treated badly. I made excuses for people. I “understood” their side. But it drained me.

People-pleasing does so much harm. I cared too much about how the other person felt and too little about myself.

It’s harder when the disrespect comes from someone close. A friend, family member, or someone you deal with daily. You feel it in your chest when they’re around. You see their message and your mood drops.

You might have even talked to them about it multiple times, but nothing changes. Hard, right? I know how that feels.

You shouldn’t have to put up with it. The emotional stress alone is exhausting.

Start small. Remind yourself that your real people won’t make you feel this way. It shouldn’t hurt this much, even if you want to fight for the relationship.

Slowly disengage from people who drain you, no matter how long you’ve known them or how convinced you are you can’t cope without them. You will cope.

Navigating relationships isn’t easy. But you can only do your best.