Toxic habits and patterns are not only very difficult to break, but they are also not easy to recognize at first. We can identify toxic traits such as - negativity, inconsistency, manipulation, being judgmental, etc. through self-observation & self-awareness.
We often develop toxic patterns when our mental health is not in a great place, or when we are unable to practice self-love.
However, it is very important that we actively work on breaking out of our toxic traits because they only tend to hurt us and our relationships.
If you are unsure where to start, then you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will share a few easy tips that will help you break out of your toxic patterns. Let’s see what they are below!
- Look for your triggers
The first thing that you need to do in order to break out of your toxic patterns is to identify your triggers. There is always something that triggers us to resort to our toxic traits or patterns, and if you identify what that is for you, it becomes easier to keep yourself in check.
Make a note of situations and events after which you have resorted to your toxic patterns in the past and keep yourself in check at all times. If you observe that a certain situation brings out a certain toxic emotion inside you, note that down, so you can be on your guard the next time it happens.
- Focus on the reason you want to change
Whenever someone decides they want to break out of toxic traits or change for the better, they always have something that becomes their motivation to change. Whatever your reason is for wanting to break out of your bad habits, you need to hold on to that and let it become a source of inspiration for you. Every time you see yourself slipping back into old behaviors, catch yourself and remind yourself of your reasons.
- Ask for support and reinforcement
Talking to a friend about your triggers and asking them for support can also help you break out of toxic traits. Give your friend the permission to remind you every time you’re slipping, so you feel the extra nudge of accountability. You can also seek help from a mental health professional.
- Practice mindfulness
Practicing mindfulness is a great way of connecting with your inner self and doing introspection about your toxic traits. It keeps you aware of your behavior and also allows you to stay vigilant in your efforts to break out of them.
- Have patience
The most important thing is to have patience in the process. Sometimes you will slip up, but the important thing is to still stay at it and keep trying.
With the help of the tips above, you can push yourself to slowly break out of your toxic patterns..