Some people think they can dim your light by trying to extinguish it. No, sorry. Here’s an idea for some people of all paths in real life and on the internet: stay away from those you don’t like. Don’t date them, friend them, follow them, comment on their stuff or even talk about them. It’s really that simple.

Don’t answer an ex who is looking for a reaction. Don’t tell off a bad friend either if they did something awful. Most people will deflect it all upon the survivor. Just ignore it. Ignore it all until they think you are dead. Until they think they “won” the adolescent inspired battle of who can hurt who the most. Find other healthy ways to handle processing the experience but do not give power to the toxic people who want to see you weakened.

Opt out of the game before you waste energy. There are people who want to suck the life out of you then laugh as you crawl away. They need help facing the reasons why the feel the need to do this to other people. You could ask why but they usually blame you entirely. Just play dead if you want like I do. Be done with it all because no one deserves to be treated like they are a nothing. Please don’t let bullies and toxic people make you feel as if you deserve to be treated like dirt. It speaks volumes about ones character when they think they deserve respect without ever giving it. And no matter how isolated you feel at times as a survivor of toxic people, just know you are not alone. Imagine all those who feel the same and be grateful you can feel empathy. Be grateful you don’t go around hurting others for a sense of power. Love yourself for being a target of toxic people, for they wouldn’t target you if they didn’t see your light as a threat to their facade. ❤