Whether it’s a family member, an old friend, or an ex-partner, toxic relationships of all kinds can really mess you up.
The problem is, even though you know they’re all wrong, walking away isn’t always easy. Maybe you have a deep sense of loyalty, or you’re afraid of being on your own. Whatever the case, you might be staying in a situation long past its sell-by date. However, if these things are happening, you’re getting stronger, braver, and nearly ready to walk away for good.
1. You stop walking on eggshells.
You’re no longer spending every moment worrying about how they’ll react to what you say or do. The fear of upsetting them or triggering an argument is fading, and you’re starting to prioritise your own truth over their moods. When you feel free to be yourself without tiptoeing around, it’s a sign that their grip on you is loosening.
2. You feel lighter after spending time with them.
Where their presence used to drain you emotionally, you’re starting to notice that you leave interactions feeling less weighed down. Their negativity doesn’t stick to you as much anymore, and you’re getting better at emotionally detaching from their drama. That lightness you feel? It’s a sign of your growing resilience.
3. You’re okay with saying “no.”
Where you once might have bent over backwards to keep the peace, you’re now comfortable declining requests that don’t serve you. Whether it’s skipping plans that exhaust you or standing firm on your boundaries, saying “no” no longer comes with the same guilt or fear. Each time you set a boundary, you reinforce your self-worth.
4. You’re not obsessed with their approval anymore.
It used to matter so much—what they thought, how they saw you, and whether they were pleased. Now? Not so much. You’re making choices based on your own needs and values, not on whether they’ll nod in approval. The less you need their validation, the more you’re stepping into your own independence.
5. You’re reconnecting with old friends.
You’re starting to reach out to people who make you feel good about yourself—the friends and family you may have distanced yourself from while navigating the toxic relationship. Rebuilding those connections reminds you of the support and joy that’s still available to you outside of the toxicity.
6. You don’t excuse bad behaviour anymore.
You’ve stopped saying, “That’s just how they are,” or brushing off their actions as quirks. You’re recognising their toxic patterns for what they are—harmful and unhealthy. This clarity makes it easier to stand firm in your boundaries and trust your instincts when something feels wrong.
7. You feel more optimistic about the future.
The thought of a life without them used to feel terrifying, but now it’s starting to feel… hopeful. You’re imagining what your world could look like without the constant tension, and it feels like a weight is lifting. This shift in perspective is a huge step toward breaking free.
8. You don’t get sucked into their drama.
Remember when their outbursts or mood swings would send you into a tailspin? Now, you’re letting them own their chaos while you focus on keeping your emotional balance. Their attempts to pull you in don’t work like they used to, and that emotional distance is empowering.
9. You start standing up for yourself.
Speaking your truth no longer feels terrifying. You’re setting boundaries, calling out behaviour that crosses the line, and not backing down when something feels unfair. Each time you assert yourself, you’re proving to yourself that your voice matters.
10. You stop blaming yourself for everything.
Where you once internalised every problem, you’re now realising that not everything is your fault. You’re learning to differentiate between what’s truly your responsibility and what isn’t. That realisation frees you from guilt that was never yours to carry in the first place.
11. You stop overthinking their every word.
You’re no longer analysing every text, tone, or look for hidden meaning. Their behaviour isn’t consuming your mental energy the way it used to, and you’re more focused on how you feel. This mental clarity is a sure sign you’re starting to untangle yourself from their grip.
12. You feel more confident in yourself.
Toxic relationships can wear down your self-esteem, but you’re starting to rebuild it piece by piece. You’re recognising your own worth and celebrating the progress you’ve made, however small it might feel. Confidence comes naturally as you realise how capable and resilient you truly are.
13. You realise you’re not responsible for their emotions.
You’re not bending over backwards to keep them happy anymore, and you’re not absorbing their anger or sadness as if it’s your fault. You’re recognising that their emotions are their responsibility, and you’re finally prioritising your own well-being.
14. You stop making excuses to stay.
You’re no longer clinging to reasons to justify staying in the relationship. Whether it’s fear, loyalty, or obligation, you’re starting to see those excuses for what they are—and they’re no longer holding you back. This clarity is paving the way for you to finally let go.
15. You don’t feel scared of their reactions.
Where you used to tread carefully to avoid their anger or criticism, now you’re standing tall. Their outbursts or cold shoulders don’t intimidate you like they once did, and you’re realising that you can handle whatever comes your way.
16. You feel more like yourself again.
The version of yourself that got buried under the weight of this relationship is finally coming back to life. You’re rediscovering old hobbies, laughing more freely, and reconnecting with the parts of yourself that you thought were lost. That renewed sense of self is proof that you’re ready to move forward.
