The concept of toxic relationships is a very difficult topic to discuss. You need to be sensitive to people’s feelings, but at the same time give them a dose of reality.
It’s both disappointing and unfortunate to see how many abusive relationships are happening on a daily basis, but are thought to be normal.
It’s important to note that you don’t need physical violence in order to have an abusive relationship. And don’t forget, both men and women can be guilty of this.
If you recognize any of the 8 signs that I discuss in this week’s video, then you truly need to take a step back, put your emotions aside, and ask yourself what your partner is truly bringing to your life.
Watch the video now and discover the 8 signs of a toxic relationship:
There are obviously thousands of more signs that can be seen as red flags to a negative relationship – but some of these are passed off as “normal.” People don’t realize that they are being mentally or emotionally abused.
Please, please, please – have the respect for yourself to walk away from a situation like this. It may be hard and you may be afraid to confront your partner about your feelings (another red flag), but you will thank yourself in the long run.
Tell me in the comments, have you or a friend experienced this type of treatment? Share your stories of strength and help us inspire others to walk away from negative situations.
To your happiness,
James
Summary –
1. You always feel guilty but you don’t know why
Is your partner always making you feel as though you did something wrong, but you genuinely can’t understand why? Sadly, there are people who seek out issues to complain about and when they can’t find one they create one. This person is not going to change so don’t waste your time and get out of the toxic situation.
2. Your partner is obsessively jealous
It’s okay to occasionally be a little jealous. In a way, jealousy says they care about you, but too much can be controlling. If their jealousy means you can’t talk or hang out with others then there is a big problem.
Someone who is illogically jealous is a big red flag. Through their jealousy they will whittle away your social life down to nothing but them. So if you see this… run! Jealousy as manipulation is a dangerous tool from a toxic partner.
3. You’re paranoid about leaving your phone around
If you’ve genuinely done nothing wrong, but are still worried about your partner snooping through your phone then you should realize something is wrong. If they sneak through your phone they have crossed the line and invaded your privacy. Trust is an important part of a healthy relationship. Worrying about your partner looking over your shoulder is a sign of disaster ahead.
4. It’s always your fault
Nobody’s perfect and no relationship is perfect. Disagreements will arise, but the cause should be shared equally. If you partner accuses you of causing every issue every time then you need to leave now. Healthy relationship are a two way street, whereas a toxic partner will always blame you. There is no reasoning with them and they won’t hear your side.
5. You’re always the one going back
The frequent pattern of breaking up and getting back together is by itself a huge red flag and unhealthy for any relationship. When you’re the one always running back and the only one apologizing then things are toxic. Healthy relationships are about compromise and taking responsibility for your part.
6. You’re never good enough
Has your relationship caused you to lose self confidence?
Does your partner discourage you from following your goals and dreams?
If you’ve answered yes then your relationship is toxic. Even if it’s indirect, your partner should not put you down. A healthy couple will support and encourage each other, build each other up, and cheer each other on.
7. You no longer do what you love
Do you have passions and hobbies that your partner doesn’t approve of?
If what you’re doing is inherently innocent, they should have no issue with it. Every relationship requires compromise, but if you’re giving up everything you love then you essentially become a willing prisoner. It is not healthy or normal to sacrifice your passions in an effort to avoid a fight or conflict. That is toxic manipulation and not a strong relationship.
8. You never know when they’re going to explode
Are you always walking on eggshells because you don’t know when your partner’s next insecurity will arise in the form of a fight or accusation? This is a form of intimidation and abuse. You deserve a relationship in which you feel free to speak your mind without fear of consequences. Making you feel small from their explosive rampages is a sure sign of a toxic relationship.
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This article originally appeared on James Michael Sama’s Blog
Photo credit: Getty Images
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