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Identify and Let Go – Releasing Toxic People from Your Life (pt 1)


Sooner or later, each of us will come in contact with people who will leave us feeling frustrated and depleted. I call them ‘soul suckers’ because of the kind of negative inertia they evoke that can pull us down and crush our spirit before we’re even aware of what’s happening. Oftentimes, these encounters can leave us in a similar sense of negativity, too.

You may already know that much of what I write about involves proper nutrition, stress management, and physical movement. I even write about toxic foods and environmental contaminants, but the truth is that there are toxic people, and they can take just as much of a toll on our health & wellness! I’ve not been immune to these encounters myself which is why I want to teach you how to identify – and avoid – such people in your life, too.

Just so you know, interacting with a toxic person always feels like a fruitless battle. You know the type; long on problems and short on solutions (because they aren’t really looking for solutions). They may complain incessantly. They may gossip about others in malicious ways. The bulk of their conversations are usually comprised of criticisms and judgments. Can you see how exposing ourselves to this sort of negativity can deplete us mentally and also prove detrimental to our physical and emotional health?

Those of us who are emotionally sensitive and empathetic can be particularly vulnerable to toxic people. As optimists, it’s in our nature to want to help them to change their point of view somehow. To us, life it a joy and we find it unfathomable that someone cannot (will not) see all the beauty, ups and downs, and pleasant surprises it brings. Unfortunately, it usually requires repeated exposure to this person before we fully realize the futility of helping someone who doesn't want the help.

Recognizing this fact is the first step to ridding yourself of a toxic person in your life – it is to understanding that nothing you do will make a difference, and most importantly – it’s not your fault! Many times we remain in a toxic relationship out of guilt. If we can’t “fix” this person, then there must be something wrong with me, my abilities and my life philosophy. Truth is that the only one you can fix is you. You can lead a horse to water, but… (you know how that story goes).

What has been your experience with toxic people? I would love to know how you managed your relationship with them. Please be sure to write a comment below - And, check back tomorrow for part 2 of this series!

As always – Enjoy Your Life!

John Aaron Villarreal


Bio: I am a Houston based, male massage therapist and wellness coach specializing in pain management and health programs for individuals over the age of forty. I laugh - a lot. I'm quirky but sincere. And, while I'm not a counselor, I do listen and I do care: Except for the times that I don't. That’s a joke - Did I mention that I like to laugh? Anyway, visit my website, call or email me and let's get together to talk about you, and the many ways to live life better!

 The Legal Stuff: I write to inform, inspire and encourage my readers to enjoy all that life has to offer.
The content and information on this site is not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease.
Please consult your physician prior to starting any exercise, diet or wellness program. 

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