The Dartboard of Relationships
Who’s Draining You? Here’s How to Find Out and Fix It
It’s crucial to review the people you surround yourself with. Who’s in your inner circle, and how do you feel about their presence? Are you fully comfortable with the way they treat you? As you grow and change, you might notice that certain dynamics don’t sit right with you anymore. That’s something you need to pay attention to.
The way others treat you should never be taken lightly. It’s about protecting your emotional well-being. Think of your relationships like a dartboard, with you at the center. The people closest to you are in the inner rings, while others sit further away. Some people are meant to be close, and others are better off at a distance.
"The way others treat you should never be taken lightly. It’s about protecting your emotional well-being."
But here’s the key: some people in your life might be in the wrong spot on that dartboard. There are people on the outer rings who deserve to be closer. They respect you, support you, and let you be yourself. Now’s the time to consider bringing them closer. These connections deserve more of your time and energy.
On the other hand, some people you’ve held close might need to be pushed further away. Maybe they trigger unhealthy emotions or take more than they give. It’s about creating space to protect your emotional health. You don’t need to cut them out completely, but boundaries are necessary.
And then, those people shouldn’t be on the dartboard at all. Toxic relationships drain you and bring you down. If someone consistently undermines you or causes emotional pain, ask yourself, "Why are they still on my board?" Don’t feel guilty about protecting your peace. Sometimes, removing someone is the best step for your growth.
On the flip side, look for those not on your board yet. There may be great, healthy connections you’ve overlooked. People who align with the person you’re becoming and bring value to your life. Please open your eyes for these potential relationships and consider welcoming them into your circle.
Your relationships should reflect where you are and where you want to go. As you grow, it’s natural to outgrow some relationships. What’s most important is that you feel good about who surrounds you. Take time to review who’s in your inner circle, and don’t hesitate to make adjustments when necessary.
"As you grow, it’s natural to outgrow certain dynamics. Pay attention to what no longer feels right."
Name your feelings and thrive!
Zalman