Shamelessly speaking – I have been a participant in some toxic behaviors that have hurt not only myself but the people around me as well. By nature, I sometimes tend to be a combination of impulsive, reckless, and anxious which can lead me to act and speak freely with zero regards to the consequences. This type of behavior is not okay and acknowledging it is the first step to learning how to stop being toxic in your own life.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission. Please see the full disclosure policy for more info.

I’ve hit rock bottom several times in my life due to struggling with crippling anxiety. And during those times I have experienced my truest self. I’ve seen sides of myself that I’ve never seen before and don’t wish to see again. I’ve visited places inside of my head that I don’t wish to revisit. I think you get what I am saying.

At one point, I have hurt people who were close to me. I also isolated myself from my closest friends. It wasn’t something I wanted but it’s something that I did anyway.

You can form toxic habits and not even realize it. We’re all human – and it happens. That is why I stated previously, it is important to acknowledge it.

We are all responsible for our mental health. And we are all accountable for the way we treat people. The most toxic thing of all can simply just be our attitudes and we fail to realize this almost every day. Your attitude can affect you and the ones around you.

How to stop being toxic in your own life: Take your mental health seriously

Brushing off a mental illness isn’t going to make it go away. Believe me, it will only make things worse! If you have any concerns that you may be struggling with a mental illness of any description, please see a medical professional! I say this because your mental health has a huge effect on your mood and emotions.

Stop being toxic and take care of yourself.

If you’re a person who struggles with anxiety and depression that causes your behavior to change. I get it. That used to be me and it was horrible. But it’s important to watch how you act towards yourself and others because the consequences aren’t so darn pretty. If you’re needing some peace from your anxiety then trust me, I totally understand! I highly suggest you grab this ebook here on how to tackle anxiety and depression, like a boss.

Alcohol doesn’t solve problems

I remember my dad once telling me this word for word one day as I stormed into my parents’ house. I had been dealing with a guy/asshole at the time and I said out loud that I needed a drink.

I’m glad my dad told me this because he made me realize that alcohol can do more harm than good. Yes, it’ll make you feel better but it is only temporary. Once that buzz wears off.. what comes back? Your problems.

I’m a full-time police dispatcher so I am not about to sit here and pretend I only drink once every 2 weeks. I love wine and it is my go-to after a long 12-hour shift in front of 5 computer screens. But I’ll have a glass of wine to wind down while cooking myself dinner or something. It is never to avoid my feelings. I have learned my lesson with that.

Don’t be toxic. Stop hurting yourself. Assess your drinking habits. Don’t drink to avoid your feelings. And besides, you’re doing yourself and your liver a favor!

Self-care

I can’t stop stressing this enough! Self-care will become your new best friend once you see how it can positively impact your life.

Lately, on my days off, I am:

1. decluttering my apartment.
2. having an in-home spa day.
3. trying new recipes.
4. blogging.
5. lighting scented candles.
6. playing with my dog.
7. going through my old journals.
8. using essential oils.
9. finding new Netflix & Hulu series to binge-watch.

There are many things you can do to practice self-care. All of the above are a few things I do to make myself feel good. But I must say, my absolute favorite is diffusing my essential oils and reciting positive affirmations. Essential oils are my favorite way to get myself relaxed and feeling good. Reciting positive affirmations to myself is just a bonus.

Also, don’t be too hard on yourself. We are all our own worst enemies. Let me say it louder for the ones in the back – WE ARE ALL OUR OWN WORST ENEMIES. If you are like me and have been an overachiever since you could walk, then I need you to definitely take heed of this blog post.

No one is perfect. Yet we still strive to be as close to it as possible. Just stop it. I say this because putting too much pressure on yourself could most likely cause you to spiral back to old habits. And we don’t need that happening!

Stop being toxic in your own life

Engaging in toxic behaviors does not make you a bad person so don’t overthink it. Don’t worry, it took me a while to believe it too. It just means that you’re human. So don’t think less of yourself because of it. Instead, be proud of yourself for acknowledging issues, making changes, and bettering yourself as a person.

I know it’s tough to believe that things will change especially when it causes your anxiety to get out of line. But just take it one day at a time. Be consistent and time will tell.

Related: Say Goodbye To Toxic People