Recognising Toxic Relationships: A Journey of Self-Reparenting

Have you faced toxic phrases like “You’re so ungrateful”? Learn how to heal and grow from these experiences.

Hello MindFull Readers,

I wanted to share something personal that I’ve been processing over the past few weeks—a breakup. Don’t worry, it’s not my marriage, but a different kind of relationship. It’s important to remember that breakups aren’t limited to romantic partners. They can also involve friends, colleagues, or even organizations. And as many of us know, any kind of breakup can be challenging and painful.

So, why did I have to step away from this relationship? Two major reasons stood out for me: a lack of integrity and everything feeling conditional. In any true, healthy relationship, there should be some form of unconditional love. Not necessarily the romantic kind, but a mutual respect where you support each other out of kindness, not expectation. When things are done with strings attached, it often leads to toxicity and even gaslighting.

Here are some common phrases you might hear when a relationship turns sour and toxic:

  • "You are so ungrateful. I did so much for you!"

  • "This was all for you, and this is how you repay me?"

  • "I don’t understand why I deserve this."

  • "Everything is your fault."

  • "That’s not what happened."

  • "That’s hardly important."

  • "You’re not making any sense."

  • "Why are you trying to confuse me?"

Sound familiar? I know these phrases all too well. I heard them repeatedly growing up, particularly from my mother, well into adulthood from various other parties as well. It was almost like a drill, convincing me that I was the problem. Sadly, these toxic behaviors often come from our parents and caregivers—the very people who are supposed to nurture us. This can be incredibly damaging to our sense of self and perpetuate a cycle of generational trauma.

Reparenting yourself can be a powerful way to heal and grow from these negative experiences. It allows you to break free from the harmful patterns and rediscover your true self.

Do any of the above phrases resonate with you? Have you been subjected to these before? If yes, it might be time to step back from the relationships that make you feel bad, even if they are with your closest loved ones. If you ever need a safe space to vent your heavy heart, my email inbox is always open. Additionally, I offer healing and growth calls where you can find the courage to talk about your feelings and start your journey towards self-discovery.

Take care, and remember, you’re not alone on this journey.

If you'd like to set up a free, 30-minute, no obligation, Healing & Growth Call with me to explore whether I am the right Reparenting Life Coach for you please book a slot at this link https://calendly.com/michelle-lim-tmp/healing-and-growth-call

With warmth and mindfulness,

Michelle Lim | Founder of The MindFull Parent | Reparenting Life Coach

Michelle Lim | Mother of 3 | Multi-Coach | Founder | Author | Preschool Educator | Babywearing Specialist | Breastfeeding Mentor

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