Let’s Get Into Red Flags 🚩
Hello there Cycle Breaker,
I’ve had a healthy rest after launching my book. Thank you for sticking around through this downtime. I see that this newsletter list has actually grown during my rest period. What a beautiful surprise to come back to! I’m glad to see it. Now, let’s get back into things.
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So…red flags…we’ve all seen them. Some of us have ignored them. Not our finest hour, but that’s a part of growing pains.
But if you’re like me and hoping to lead into the rest of your life not ignoring red flags, but making prompt decisions to no longer stick around when red flags continue to happen, the rest of this newsletter should be helpful.
As we journey through the intricacies of relationships, it's vital to have our radar tuned to the subtle signs that may indicate an unhealthy dynamic. Whether at work, in romance, in friendship, or in family, understanding and recognizing red flags can empower us to navigate these connections authentically and not self-abandon, but truly show up in our own best interest.
Picture this: You find yourself in a relationship—be it romantic, platonic, or professional—where something feels a bit off. Maybe it's an unsettling vibe or moments of discomfort that you can't quite put your finger on. Trust those instincts. Get curious with how these moments are emotionally impacting you. And don’t forget to honor yourself and your emotions.
Now…here's the lowdown on spotting red flags:
Manipulation Tactics:
These can be so incredibly subtle. So keep your spidey senses attuned to the subtleties of manipulation—anything from guilt-tripping to gaslighting—that seeks to control your actions or emotions. And remember, yes, it’s gaslighting and no, you’re not “crazy.”
Lack of Empathy:
Genuine connections are built on empathy. If a person cares for your well-being, they won’t invalidate you, but instead try and understand you more, even through difficult times. If you notice a consistent lack of concern for your feelings, it's worth noting. And maybe even placing in the red flag bucket.
Constant Criticism:
Healthy relationships foster growth, not perpetual negativity. If you find that a person is offering unbalanced criticism or belittling you, guess what? That’s not constructive or connecting, so consider making your next move knowing that this person is being persistent about their pessimism and lack of kindness.
Erratic Behavior:
Unpredictable or erratic behavior might indicate underlying issues or impulsivity. When a person continuously acts without considering how their actions impact you, it could be a sign of intentional disregard. And if it’s a pattern, then it’s less about the situation being challenging and more about the person having challenging personality characteristics.
So how do you self-empower as you navigate these situations:
First, By Trusting Your Instincts:
If something feels off, trust your instincts! Your intuition is a powerful guide in navigating relationships. Don’t downplay it.
Seeking Support:
Share your experiences with trusted friends, family, or a therapist. A supportive network can offer valuable perspectives. Trust me on this. Their help can be life-saving.
Educating Yourself:
Learn about manipulative tactics and red flags. Knowledge is a potent tool in recognizing and responding to toxic behaviors.
Prioritizing Well-being:
Make self-care a priority. Whether through therapy, journaling, or engaging in activities that bring joy, prioritize your mental and emotional health.
Remember, you deserve relationships that uplift and support you.
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Explore more in my book, BREAK THE CYCLE. It’s got a beautiful new NATIONAL BESTSELLER title on top and is temporarily 40% off on Amazon and Target.
Grab your copy or gift it to someone who could use some healing too!
