Toxic relationships cause you immense stress and it affects your physical, mental, and emotional health. Holidays and special occasions often exacerbate stress. People who suffer from narcissistic personality disorder seem to enjoy ruining holidays by demanding attention, creating drama, and throwing tantrums if they don’t get their way. See my previous blog post about their ruin of holidays here.
It's time to explore ways you can protect yourself. Do something for yourself after surviving Thanksgiving and before your next major holiday. In my mini training, I give you practical strategies for you to coexist with your narcissist. I break down the way they argue as it’s like no other experience. I also guide you to begin the healing process. Check out my mini training here.
5 things you can do for you
1. Boundaries
It’s important to set boundaries and limitations. Usually, the best way to protect your boundaries is by going no-contact. This isn’t easy when you are dealing with these people in a specific situation. You will need to proactively set time limits, giving these people specific blocks when you are available. It’s recommended to compromise with your narcissist to mitigate drama, but you absolutely cannot accept any kind of physical or emotional abuse from them. This is non-negotiable.
2. Don’t take it personally
When you choose to not take anything personally, rather than feel hurt or angry you become more empowered. You are being proactive rather than a victim of another person’s narcissism. If you make a habit to not take things personally, anger, jealousy, envy and even sadness will disappear as a result. You’ll gain empathy, compassion, and respect. These are all great transformational characteristics.
3. Gratitude
It’s so important to focus on what’s actually important and your people. Toxic relationships make you question everything, including your own sanity. Take time to express your gratitude whether through meditation, journaling, or prayer.
4. Self-Care
It’s critical for you to practice self-care. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines self-care as “the ability of individuals, families, and communities to promote health, prevent disease, maintain health, and to cope with illness and disability with or without the support of a healthcare provider.” This means paying attention to you, keeping yourself healthy to the best of your ability.
Examples of Self-Care Activities:
Meditation or prayer
Sitting in sunlight
Exercising
Eating right
Getting a massage
Laughing with friends
Reading a book
Having a hobby
Even just putting on clean clothes
5. Forgiveness
Forgiveness is for you, not them. It’s essential you find your peace of mind. This is true self-care for you. Forgiveness is about bringing you a sense of peace, releasing your grudges, and letting go of bitterness. This doesn’t mean reconciling or returning to your former relationship. Move on and let go.
Psychology Today stresses, “forgiveness is vitally important for the mental health of those who have been victimized. It propels people forward rather than keeping them emotionally engaged in an injustice or trauma.” Forgiveness also equals freedom. Once you allow yourself to release your anger, resentment, and rage, you’re finally and happily free.
I’m a survivor of narcissistic abuse and now I coach people on their healing journey. I have purpose in what I'm doing. I give people clarity, validation & comfort.
Learn more about me here: https://buff.ly/3wf6tgQ
Click here to book a free session with me. We’ll figure out if we work well together.
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