Walking away from narcissists, whether it’s family, a partner, or so-called friends isn’t just an act of self-preservation. It’s a full-blown reclamation of power.
For too long, I was tangled in their manipulation, their guilt-tripping, their gaslighting. But I’ve reached my limit. Enough is enough.
So today, I’m making 10 solid promises to myself, commitments that will shape the person I’m becoming now that I’m free from the chaos.
Some of these feel uncomfortable to admit because, let’s be honest, I’ve broken promises to myself before. But this time? I show up differently.
If you’ve cut ties with toxic people, I hope these promises inspire you to set your own. Because healing isn’t about perfection, it’s about choosing progress over staying stuck.
Table of Contents
1. I Will Set Boundaries and Actually Enforce Them
Saying “no” used to feel impossible because I didn’t want to upset anyone. Now? I don’t care if it makes people uncomfortable. My boundaries exist for a reason, and I refuse to bend them just to keep the peace.
2. I Will No Longer Apologize for Taking Up Space
For too long, I kept myself small to avoid conflict. But I’m done playing that game. I have the right to exist, to speak up, and to take up space without feeling guilty for it.
3. I Will Prioritize Growth Instead of Perfection
Healing isn’t about getting everything right; it’s about moving forward. Some days, I’ll stumble. Some days, I’ll thrive. But as long as I’m growing, I’m winning.
4. I Will Stop Blaming Myself for Other People’s Toxic Behavior
Their mistreatment was never about me, it was always about their own damage. I refuse to carry the weight of their issues on my shoulders any longer.
5. I Will Focus on My Own Needs Instead of Fixing Everyone Else’s
I used to absorb other people’s emotions, thinking it was my job to keep everyone happy. It’s not. I’m not responsible for managing anyone else’s feelings but my own.
6. I Will Cut Ties with Anyone Who Requires Me to Betray Myself
If being in a relationship, romantic, familial, or otherwise means I have to suppress who I am, then that relationship has no place in my life.
7. I Will Let Go of the Guilt for Walking Away from Toxic People
Not everyone will understand why I cut ties, and that’s okay. I don’t need their approval to protect my peace.
8. I Will Allow Myself to Mourn What I Never Had
Ignoring the pain won’t make it disappear. I’m giving myself permission to grieve the love, validation, and support I didn’t receive—and then I’ll move on stronger than ever.
9. I Will Stop Trying to Be Who Others Expect Me to Be
I’m done twisting myself into a version of me that makes other people comfortable. Authenticity is my new standard, and if that’s a problem for someone, they don’t belong in my life.
10. I Will Trust My Own Judgment Without Second-Guessing
I’ve been trained to doubt myself, but those days are over. If something doesn’t feel right, I’ll trust my gut and act accordingly, no more questioning my own instincts.
Final Thoughts: A Promise Worth Keeping
These promises? They are not up for negotiation. They are the foundation of my healing, my growth, and my future.
I choose me.
I choose my peace, my sanity, and my freedom.
And if you’ve walked away from toxic relationships, I hope you do the same.
What’s one promise you’re making to yourself after cutting off toxic people? Drop it in the comments!
