The toxic people These are those who, through their behavior, end up negatively affecting those around them. It is important to note that not all toxic people are the same: they have different personalities but share certain common characteristics. Their ability to absorb the energy of others while not contributing anything positive is one of their most recognizable traits. These types of people not only damage friendly or loving relationships, but can destroy any type of healthy bond.
How to recognize a toxic person?
One of the main signs that can reveal a toxic person is that the relationship with them is exhausting. You may even notice that you feel better when they are not present. These people tend to fill themselves at the expense of the well-being of others, emptying their energy and weakening the motivation of those around them. Therefore, it is normal feel exhausted after spending time with someone of this type.
Common characteristics of toxic people
In order to identify a toxic person, it is necessary to know the behaviors or attitudes they usually display. Below, we will look at some key characteristics:
- Egocentrism: Everything in a toxic person's life revolves around themselves. No matter what others tell them, they will always try to redirect the conversation back to themselves. It seems that other people's experiences or feelings are of no importance.
- Constant complaints: Toxic people tend to complain about everything. They are never satisfied and are constantly criticizing what others do, which can create a negative atmosphere around them.
- Emotional manipulation: These people are experts at distorting reality to make others feel guilty. Their goal is to maintain control and make themselves the victim in every situation.
- Lack of empathy: One of the most serious characteristics: Lack of empathy makes toxic people unable to understand or care about the feelings or problems of others.
How do toxic people behave in a relationship?
In personal relationships, toxic behaviors can be devastating. Toxic people tend not to rejoice in the achievements or joys of others, displaying more envy and jealousy than other positive feelings. This inability to feel true satisfaction for the well-being of others reflects a deep internal insecurity.
7 traits that reveal a toxic person
- Negative emotions: When you have a conversation with a toxic person, you will notice that most of their comments are pessimistic or stressful. When you say goodbye, you will probably feel a sharp drop in energy.
- They criticize others: Toxic people have no qualms about mercilessly criticizing others, often no matter how close the person is to them. This creates distrust, as it makes you think that they will criticize you in the same way.
- Recurrent victimhood: In any situation, the toxic person will adopt the role of victim, diverting attention from their bad actions or attitudes.
- Lack of personal goals: These people often lack clear goals. They live dragged along by events, and when everything goes wrong, they adopt a helpless attitude, blaming their environment for their failures.
Do you recognize yourself in any of these situations? If you feel that a toxic person is affecting your life in this way, it will be crucial to establish clear boundaries and decide how much influence you allow them to have on you.
How to handle a toxic person?
Being in a relationship with a toxic person, whether it's a partner, friend, or family member, can have serious consequences for your mental health. The effects can include stress, anxiety, and even depression. Below are some strategies to better manage these types of relationships:
- Set limits: It's not always possible to cut off all ties with a toxic person, but you can set clear boundaries in your interactions. Define what you accept and what you don't.
- Don't play their game: One of their strategies is to provoke emotional reactions. Avoid falling for their manipulations and stay calm.
- Practice assertiveness: Assertiveness will allow you to clearly express what you think and feel, without being manipulated.
How a toxic relationship can affect you
Living in constant contact with a toxic person directly affects your well-being. You may begin to question your worth, your self-esteem may be affected, and you may become more insecure. In addition, being constantly in a toxic environment leads to the appearance of physical problems related to mental health such as insomnia or digestive problems.
It is important to be aware of how a relationship with a toxic person can affect your emotional health. If you feel that the situation is overwhelming you, it is always advisable to seek the help of a professional such as a psychologist or therapist.
Finally, it is important to learn to detect these behaviors and take action. Although it is natural to worry about the people around us, if the relationship is much more harmful than positive, it is best to distance yourself from it.