We're All Toxic

A friend told me once, "we're all toxic in some way or another even though we may not see it or we may not think so."

She shared this with me during a conversation about how being around negative people can be exhausting. Despite my efforts to support and uplift those people, I struggle to deal with such drama anymore. Personally, I feel that after leaving one toxic relationship, it's time to distance myself from all such relationships.

Lately, though, it appears that every relationship becomes toxic due to the world becoming overly sensitive, petty, drama-focused, and selfish.

Just in the past 4 weeks, I have been blocked by people on Facebook and cell phones due to their inability to engage in difficult, mature discussions.

After some reflection, I believe my toxic trait is being overly optimistic about the world. My sister-in-law often tells me to be more realistic and less idealistic. However, since I've tried to adopt this perspective, I've found myself feeling more depressed than ever. I've become so guarded and closed off that those attempting to connect with me are unable to break through the barriers I've built, ultimately pushing them away.

I thought it might be valuable for everyone, myself included, to take a look at some components involved in healthy relationships. Regardless of whether you consider yourself toxic or not, enhancing all your relationships can be beneficial for everyone. Check them out below:

Communication 

Effective communication can help you understand others better, clear up misunderstandings, and lead to better time together. You can also let others know when they hurt your feelings. 

Respect 

Respect is a foundation of healthy relationships. It can create a sense of equality and fairness, and allow others to express themselves without fear of judgment. 

Boundaries 

You should feel comfortable communicating your boundaries and know that others will respect them. Boundaries can also help you avoid unhealthy relationship patterns and old triggers. 

Trust 

In a healthy relationship, you shouldn't doubt others loyalty or truthfulness, and vice versa. Honesty can help build trust. 

Separate identities 

Healthy couples/friends spend time together, but they also have separate parts of their lives, such as work, hobbies, and other friendships. 

So, we all have our toxic traits, but with the help of these tips and if we’re actually willing to put in some effort for those relationships that mean something to us, those that are meant to stay in our lives will stay.