Assuming change in toxic relationships is a dangerous assumption: Accept that some people, especially those with narcissistic tendencies, may not change and prioritize your emotional well-being
In toxic relationships, especially those involving narcissistic individuals, assuming that the person will change based on empathy or new approaches is a dangerous assumption. Empathy, while a valuable emotion, can be weaponized against you by a narcissist. Instead, it's crucial to look at the patterns of behavior over time and accept that the person may not change. This acceptance can help you make informed decisions about the relationship and prioritize your own emotional well-being. Additionally, understanding that narcissists are often attracted to individuals with high empathy can help you recognize the dynamic and protect yourself. Empiricism, or acting on experience, is a valuable tool in assessing the likelihood of change in such relationships.
Understanding the Limits of Empathy: Empathy can be manipulated in unhealthy relationships, leading to excuses for harmful behaviors and neglect of own needs. Recognize when to trade empathy for compassionate distance to protect oneself.
Empathy, while a valuable trait, can have its limits and can be manipulated in unhealthy relationships. Empathy allows us to understand and connect with others, even those with extreme or harmful behaviors. However, it can also lead us to make excuses for their actions and overlook our own needs. People with insidious behavior can weaponize our empathy against us, making us feel guilty for not understanding or for calling them out on their actions. At some point, it becomes necessary to recognize the flaw in the relationship and trade empathy for a more distant compassion, which may mean leaving the relationship or maintaining a distance to protect oneself. It's important to remember that life is complex, and there are different kinds of people in our lives, and it's essential to find a balance between empathy and self-care.
Navigating toxic relationships in romantic contexts: Accept reality, let go of unhealthy relationships, and commit to building a healthier future
While it may be easier to maintain a distant relationship with toxic family members or friends who exhibit narcissistic tendencies, romantic relationships require a deeper level of commitment and trust. Empathy should not be used as a cover for fear, and it's essential to accept the reality of one's situation and be willing to let go of unhealthy relationships. This can be a difficult process, as it may involve acknowledging the time and energy invested in the relationship and the potential impact on one's image in the eyes of others. However, true progress can only be made when we accept where we are and are willing to take the necessary steps towards building a healthier, more fulfilling future.
Acknowledge and accept reality: Honesty with oneself leads to progress and happiness, rather than staying stagnant and pretending all is well
It's important to be honest with yourself about your current situation, rather than clinging to an inaccurate image or the status quo. Hiding from reality or pretending things are better than they are can prevent us from feeling progress and true happiness. When faced with difficult choices, it's natural for our minds to try to convince us that staying put is the easier option. But, deep down, we know that remaining stagnant will never bring us the peace and joy we desire. Instead, it's crucial to acknowledge our struggles, accept where we are, and take steps towards growth. Remember, progress, not perfection, is the key to happiness.
Escaping toxic relationships requires personal growth and self-healing: To leave toxic relationships, focus on personal growth and self-healing to empower yourself and create a happier future.
Personal growth and self-healing are essential to escaping toxic relationships and finding happiness. Both staying in a toxic relationship and leaving will present challenges, but only one path offers the possibility of a happier future. The root causes of our inability to leave often lie within ourselves, and true healing requires introspection and self-empowerment. Whether through attending a retreat or pursuing personal growth independently, it's crucial to prioritize self-improvement to break free from toxic relationships and create a more fulfilling life.
(Matt Monday): Is the Person You’re Dating a Narcissist?
Recent Episodes from Love Life with Matthew Hussey
(Rewind): 13 Subtle Ways to Make Someone Want More With You
In today’s new episode, I’ll share with you exactly how to do that through 13 highly practical tips to get him to take you more seriously. Some of these are subtle, but each one of these points can have an outsized impact on how your relationship moves forward.
I really wanted to make this episode because the tone you set in the beginning will serve you throughout your entire relationship, and the influence you can have on being taken seriously by someone is huge. It can determine whether your relationship will be a casual one that’s on their terms, or a committed, loving one where you’re building something together.
And in addition to being practical, this episode breaks down the psychology behind each of these tips and provides you with examples (and in many cases, specific texts) you can customize and make your own.
►► Ask Matthew AI Your Biggest Dating Question for Free Now at. . . → http://www.AskMH.com
263: Protect Yourself In Dating With This Mindset
Do you find some relationships and situations in life that just drain you? Maybe there are people you're investing energy into in your dating life that make you feel burnt out, frustrated, and make you want to withdraw entirely.
So if you want to spend your time in a happier, freer, more productive way that leaves you uplifted, this episode is for you. Matt gives 7 key insights from the book "Protect Your Peace" by Trent Shelton that will change your mindset and stop you surrounding yourself with toxic people that add to your stress in life.
►► Answers Tailored to You, In Real Time, When You Need Them Most.
Ask Matthew AI Your Biggest Dating Question for Free at . . .
→ http://www.AskMH.com
►► Order My New Book, "Love Life" at → http://www.LoveLifeBook.com
►► FREE Video Training: “Dating With Results” → http://www.DatingWithResults.com
(Matt Monday): Why Does Dating Feel So Hard In 2024??
►► Ask Matthew AI Your Biggest Dating Question for Free Now at. . . → http://www.AskMH.com
(Rewind): If They Pull Away, Text This Response...
What can you do when you feel like you're getting excuses and feel they're pulling away in their texts? If you don't want to play games, here's a simple way you can be honest, vulnerable, but still keep your standards when you respond.
►► Ask Matthew AI Your Biggest Dating Question for Free Now at. . . → http://www.AskMH.com
262: "I Want A Serious Relationship, But They Want To 'See How Things Go'"
How do you know is someone is ready for a relationship? What if they use phrases in their dating app like "If the right person came along, I'd be open to a relationship", or "I want to see how things go"?
In this episode, Matt, Audrey and Stephen discuss how certain you need to be of someone's intentions in the early dating stages and how you should decide who to invest in so you don't waste your time with the wrong person.
►► Ask Matthew AI Your Biggest Dating Question for Free Now at. . . → http://www.AskMH.com
261: How To Deeply Connect To The Hidden Power Of The Five Hearts w/ Kimberly Snyder
- Get Out Of A Rut And Tap Into Your Intuition
- Stop Settling And Feeling Unworthy Love
- Become More Emotionally Resilient
- Overcome Fear, Anxiety and Burnout
- Feel More Internally Fulfilled And Empowered
- Step Into A State Of Flow
(Matt Monday): How To Respond To "Bare Minimum" Texting
►► Ask Matthew AI Your Biggest Dating Question for Free Now at. . . → http://www.AskMH.com
(Rewind): 3 Mistakes People Make When It Comes To Exclusivity in Dating
It’s very easy to avoid having certain conversations in life. And one of the more dangerous forms of avoidance is assuming we’re exclusive when it’s unclear in early dating. So when should you have The Conversation? And what are some of the pitfalls that lead to people being “in limbo” and never really getting the commitment they want?
In this episode, Matthew, Stephen and Audrey talk about 3 common mistakes in the early dating stage and how to get clearer about where you really stand.
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►► Ask Matthew AI Your Biggest Dating Question for Free Now at. . . → http://www.AskMH.com
260: He Seemed Attracted...Then Pulled Away. Why?
Ever felt like you had chemistry and were falling for someone, and then they seem to start texting less, stop scheduling dates, and seem to be fading out? What does this mean? And more importantly, should you have "the conversation" to see where you stand?
In this episode, Matthew, Stephen and Audrey talk to a caller who felt the guy she was seeing wasn't interested anymore after he went on vacation. They discuss how to respond and what some the reasons might be behind this behavior.
►► Ask Matthew AI Your Biggest Dating Question for Free Now at. . .
→ http://www.AskMH.com
(Matt Monday): Feel Them Pulling Away? DO NOT Chase; Do THIS Instead!
Ever been dating someone who suddenly goes cold when they go on a trip out of town? What happened? And how should you respond to this behavior?
Today’s episode is all about what happens when we invest too soon, and how someone’s “radio silence” can trigger our insecurity. I even provide two text messages you can send: one for if they reach back out to you when they’re back in town, and one for when they don’t.
BTW, don’t miss our HUGE announcement in this one (it’s right after Audrey’s cheeky cameo). ;) You’ll be one of the first people in the world to try this thing out . . . it’s crazy!
►► 17 Years of Love Life Coaching Experience in Your Pocket Whenever You Need It.
Get on the Early Bird List for Matthew AI Now at. . .
→ http://www.AskMHFirst.com
►► Order My New Book, "Love Life" at → http://www.LoveLifeBook.com
►► FREE Video Training: “Dating With Results” → http://www.DatingWithResults.com
Related Episodes
Breaking Down Toxic Traits: Understanding and Overcoming Negative Behaviors
In this podcast, we explore the complex and often misunderstood world of toxic traits. We discuss how certain negative behaviors can have a detrimental impact on our personal and professional relationships, as well as our overall mental health and well-being. From narcissism and manipulation to anger issues and emotional abuse, we delve into some of the most common toxic traits and how they manifest in our lives.
Whether you're struggling with your own toxic tendencies or dealing with toxic people in your life, this podcast provides valuable insights and guidance on how to break free from negative patterns and build healthier, more positive relationships.
Join us as we explore the fascinating world of toxic traits and chart a course towards greater self-awareness and personal growth.
Become a Patreon! www.patreon.com/thepositivityxperience
Socials, Services & Website www.thepositivityxperience.com
211: Powerful Healing Habits After Heartbreak - w/ Martha Higareda
In this conversation we cover:
- How To Recover From Heartbreak and Narcissistic Relationships
- Spotting Toxic Behaviour In Dating
- Healing your wounds and your inner child
- How To Stop Idealizing In Relationships
I'm so excited to share this conversation with you and know you'll get tons out of it!
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Follow Matt @thematthewhussey
►► Stop Waiting and Start Creating the Happiness You Deserve NOW - Claim your spot on my Virtual Retreat, June 2 - 4, 2023 → MHVirtualRetreat.com
144: How To Tell If You're In A Relationship With A Narcissist...
It's all too common in modern dating to label someone a "narcissist". But what are the actual signs you're dating a narcissist vs. just dating a flawed person? What behaviours should you look for in the early dating stage?
Join Matt and Stephen as they discuss all things narcissism and how to heal after a relationship with someone who damages your self-esteem...
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Join us on our virtual retreat on March 18th-20th! Go to MHVirtualRetreat.com and spend a magical 3 days with us transforming your confidence and relationships...
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Follow Matt @thematthewhussey
Follow Stephen @stephenhhussey
#179 - Duncan Trussell
272. Why Sober Life is the Luckiest Life with Laura McKowen
