Oh, this isn’t explicitly work-related. For some years, someone continued to misbehave. Criticize. Compare when the discussion wasn’t even relevant. Another intruded into my domain because they had a power backup. They misused that power and tried to deteriorate my image publicly. And then, recently, someone else told me I was “too sweet”.
They said this is why I find it hard to say no or to question when my ideas, feelings, concerns, values, or thoughts are dismissed and just considered trivial info. Another person highlighted my over-positivity despite all of this, which, while a positive trait, often leaves me getting neglected and taken for granted.
How does one maintain their positivity when they’re hurting? How do they continue to show kindness when others are cruel to them? How does one always adjust to others’ convenience?
Despite the pain, some people continue to put others first and express happiness when the others who hurt them receive love, care, empathy, protection, and appreciation, often at the expense of their own well-being.
Is it easy? No.
Then why do they continue to do this? Because these people, even though a few, are simply good, honest, and pure human beings.
People tell them to never give up. Go out of your way. Go beyond your boundaries.
And they keep pushing with zero reciprocity and nil acknowledgment.
So, knowing when to quit this deliberate toxicity around you takes more strength. And self-awareness. And yes. It’s unbelievably shattering and heartbreaking.
But it’s about recognizing and actually accepting when something, or someone, is no longer there for us – maybe never was – and having the courage to walk away – mentally or even physically. It could be a person, place, situation, project, relation, or anything!
Quitting on someone or something opens you to embracing what you are meant to be and do. Let go when you need to.
This week, I have. And it has now allowed me to be firm on what I want and be there only for those who matter to me. Have you?
Shines & Shadows 