Protecting Your Family From Toxic People

Many millennials and Gen-Z are doing what the world hasn’t really seen before.

We’re calling out toxicity, and dysfunction.

You may have stumbled across videos on the internet where the older generations are baffled by these decisions, claiming that it’s entitlement or lack of respect.

When in reality it’s calling out harmful behavior, and protecting your peace from the ones who continuously try to cross your boundaries.

(make sure you subscribe so you don’t miss my next post on setting boundaries!)

It can be extremely challenging, and complicated, but unfortunately sometimes it’s necessary.

When I was pregnant last year I learned so much about myself, and had to make some difficult decisions to protect the family that I created.

I’m still on what seems like a never-ending road, but I wanted to share what I’ve learned so far.

I’m hoping this bring you comfort if you ever find yourself in a similar situation, or affirms the tough decisions you’re already had to make with the toxic people in your life.

《You may also like 7 easy ways to practice mindfulness which you can find here.》

Protection from what?

That might be a question you have, and its valid.

So many of us don’t even realize the negativity in our environment because we’re used to it.

We’re conditioned to believe certain behaviors are okay, but from an objective standpoint it may not be all warm and fuzzy.

It’s a tricky situation to find yourself in.

Before I became a mom or even got pregnant I was able to look past many words and actions.

At the time it wasn’t a threat or detrimental to my life.

But, when I found out my husband and I were having a baby I knew what I needed to do.

Sometimes doing the right thing is painful.

And, I struggled with that decision for a while.

Most of the time it does feel easier to conform, give people what they want no matter how you may feel.

I couldn’t do that anymore, so I made a conscious decision to protect my child from negative or harmful behavior.

Just because someone has a title to you doesn’t mean they’re entitled to you

There may be people in your life that think they have a free pass to treat you however they want without consequences.

Now, this can lead to messy situations if left unaddressed. And, who likes that awkward tension in a room? It’s honestly the worst.

Pretending something isnt there or isn’t bothering you helps no one involved, so you might as well say what’s on your mind.

Maybe the ones around you will understand or at least respect what you say, and how you feel – or they won’t and you have to move forward accordingly.

Some of the most important conversations are the toughest ones

Trust me, I get it.

It’s one of the hardest things to do, but putting your well-being first is a priority.

For years I didn’t put myself first, I just sat in my role and gave people my all when they couldn’t be bothered to give 20% in return.

But, as more incidents came up it was important to take a step back, and realize the harm that was being done.

I’m honestly grateful for the epiphany.

I know that may sound weird, and I’m not saying I’m glad things happened the way they did in my situation.

With that being said I admit I was way too comfortable to make that change on my own.

Comfort zones are not where you grow.

So, here I am adjusting to my new normal.

A strange mix of missing certain things, but basking in a level of peace I’ve never had before.

I had to do that for my son.

And, even though I know it was the right decision it was a tough one to make.

This is not a decision anyone makes lightly.

I just started reading this book by Krystle Laughter-Parker, and it’s really been helping me on this journey. It’s called Love Yourself First – you can find it here.

(if you have a kindle unlimited subscription you can read it for free!)

One day (hopefully) you’re going to want better because you deserve better.

The people in your space should reflect that, and if they don’t or won’t even try you might need to make some hard choices.

It’s going to hurt, yes.

However,

Having company that chooses to continue the behaviors that hurt you after telling them it hurt you..

is much worse – trust me.

At least in one scenario you’d be choosing peace for you and your family.

And, that is priceless.

My parting words are –

Don’t let anyone treat you poorly, regardless of who it is.

This is not an easy road to navigate, but there is so much to be proud of for taking this difficult step.

Loving from afar can be helpful

If there are individuals you love but can’t be around that often or at all, that’s okay.

They might

• welcome negativity
• seek drama
• have draining energy

You can love someone and choose to not be in the same space.

It’s a healthy boundary that can be beneficial.

Especially when trying to protect your peace.

Ultimately, I hope we all are able to reach the peace we are looking for and break free from toxic cycles that are bringing us down.