Toxic Relationship Quotes As Guidance
Toxic Relationship Quotes And What They Can Teach Us
Relationships are an integral part of life. When they’re healthy, they can bring us joy, support, and connection. But when they turn toxic, they can be damaging to our well-being.
Toxic people and relationships often leave someone feeling drained and exhausted. Fortunately, there are many quotes out there to help understand and break free if you're considering leaving a toxic relationship.
Some quotes
"Sometimes the person you love most is the person you can't trust at all." -Anonymous
This quote serves as a reminder that not all relationships (short or long term) are meant to last forever; even if the toxic partner once meant so much to us.
It's important to acknowledge that sometimes the person we love most is capable of causing us harm or pain. We need to prioritise our safety and wellbeing in these circumstances.
“The most painful thing is losing yourself in the process of loving someone too much, and forgetting that you are special too.” -Ernest Hemingway
This Ernest Hemingway quote speaks volumes about what happens when we become so enmeshed in our partner's needs that we forget about our own. This can be a common occurrence in toxic relationships where one partner seeks control over the other.
It's important to remember that while we should always strive for healthy relationships, sacrificing our own happiness and wellbeing isn't worth it in the end.
Red flags
Look out for the following red flags suggesting an unhealthy or abusive relationship:
Any kind of threats, intimidation, or physical violence. These signs are cause for taking immediate action to protect yourself.
Psychological abuse: put-downs, gaslighting, blaming you for all relationship problems. These are just a few examples of abusive behaviour.
Lack of respect
Communication problems
Unrealistic expectations of you and/or the relationship
Inflexibility, or unwillingness to compromise and see things from a different perspective
Psychological damage is likely when you stay in an unhealthy relationship. You probably need to leave if the other person is unwilling to change their behaviour.
"It’s amazing how someone can break your heart and you can still love them with all the little pieces." -Ella Harper
“A bad relationship is like standing on broken glass, if you stay you will keep hurting. If you walk away, you will hurt but eventually, you will heal.” -Autumn Kohler
“No partner in a love relationship… should feel that he has to give up an essential part of himself to make it viable.” -May Sarton
Moving Forward
When a relationship isn’t working anymore, sometimes it’s better to just move on. Here are some wise words from famous figures that may give you the strength you need to make that decision:
“Sometimes the hardest part isn't letting go but rather learning to start over.” - Nicole Sobon
“You have to accept that some people are never going to be in your life—no matter how much you want them to be.” – Unknown
“Sometimes it takes a heartbreak to shake us awake & help us see we deserve so much more than we're settling for.” - Mandy Hale
“You make me feel like a firefly. Trapped in a bell jar; starved for love.” - Ayushee Ghoshal
Poisonous relationships can alter our perception of reality. They can also be isolating. Stay connected with trusted friends and family for alternative perspectives. You can spend years thinking you’re worthless. A counterpoint is needed to preserve self image.
Summary
Moving on from a toxic relationship is no easy task. But these quotes serve as an inspiring reminder that it is possible. A broken heart is devastating, but a destroyed self-image is worse.
If you're struggling with getting out of an unhealthy relationship right now, keep these words close by as reminders of why taking care of yourself is so important.
Most crucially, you must seek help and support immediately if you are at risk of harm from your partner.
We are Coaching & Clinical Psychologists with extensive experience helping people conquer a range of wellbeing and performance issues at home and in the workplace. We can help with your relationship difficulties. Read more about our work, watch practical skills videos or browse other articles. Get in touch anytime.