Respect is the foundation of any healthy relationship. Without it, trust and communication break down. When both partners respect each other’s boundaries, feelings, and perspectives, it creates a sense of safety that allows the relationship to grow. In my experience, mutual respect leads to better communication because both people feel heard and valued. It’s also about recognizing each other’s individuality and supporting one another's growth. Without respect, there’s no balance, and the relationship can quickly turn toxic.

It hit me when I started to feel like I was losing myself. I was always anxious, walking on eggshells, and questioning my worth. A close friend pointed out the red flags I was too deep in to see clearly, and that was the wake-up call I needed. To heal, I’ve focused on setting boundaries and learning to say no without guilt. I also joined a support group, which helped me realize I wasn’t alone and gave me practical tools to move forward. It’s a journey, but I’m proud of the progress I’ve made.

I finally recognized the toxic traits when I started researching emotional abuse and gaslighting. It was like a lightbulb moment; everything I read mirrored my experiences. To heal, I started practicing mindfulness and self-compassion, reminding myself daily that the way I was treated wasn’t my fault. I also worked on rebuilding my self-esteem by engaging in activities that made me feel confident and empowered. Connecting with others who’ve been through similar experiences has been incredibly healing for me.

I identified the toxic traits after I left the relationship and could finally see things more clearly. Distance gave me perspective, and I started to realize how much I had tolerated, from constant disrespect to emotional manipulation. Healing has involved a lot of self-reflection and therapy. I’ve also created a list of non-negotiables for future relationships to ensure I never ignore those red flags again. It’s been empowering to take back control and prioritize my well-being.