Cutting Ties with Toxic People: The Ultimate Life Upgrade

Cutting Ties with Toxic People: Because You Deserve Peace

You ever get off the phone with someone and suddenly need a nap, a drink, and maybe an exorcism? Instead of feeling happy or inspired, you feel like you just ran a marathon, barefoot, on Legos? Yeah, me too. That’s what cutting ties with toxic people helped me escape after a 30-year friendship that felt more like a hostage situation.

For three decades, I played emotional gymnastics trying to keep the peace. If I succeeded at something, she got mad. If she was struggling, somehow it was my fault. If she was lonely, I was a bad friend. If she didn’t tell me she was dating someone, it was because I didn’t ask. Everything felt like a game or a test, where I didn’t know the rules but was always losing. The final straw? She dead-serious looked me in the eye and said, “I’m not crazy. Everyone else is.” …Ma’am. That’s what crazy people say.

And it’s not just friendships, workplaces are full of these energy-draining ass clowns, too. Ever had a boss who treated you like a magician instead of an employee? “Hey, can you completely redesign this website in 10 minutes?” No. No, I cannot, Greg. Fucking, Greg.

Why Toxic People Are Basically Health Hazards

Science time! When you’re around toxic people, your body stays in fight-or-flight mode like you’re being chased by a bear 24/7. The side effects?
✔️ Anxiety & depression (because constantly doubting your sanity is exhausting)
✔️ High blood pressure (love that for me!)
✔️ Insomnia (because replaying gaslighting conversations at 2 AM is a vibe!)
✔️ Weakened immune system (now I’m sick AND emotionally drained? Fantastic.)

On top of that, your creativity tanks. Ever tried brainstorming your next big idea while also questioning if you’re actually the problem? Spoiler: it doesn’t work. Cutting ties with toxic people frees up mental space for things that actually matter, like art, happiness, and remembering to drink water.

Related Read: Stay Zen(ish): Stress Relief Tips for the Creative Hot Mess

Cutting Ties with Toxic People: It’s Not You, It’s Them

It took me way too long to realize that some people just won’t change. I kept thinking, Maybe if I explain it better? Maybe if I try harder? Maybe if I shrink myself to be less threatening? Spoiler: none of that worked. The only thing that did? Walking away.

And not just from friendships. After years of agency life, I realized I was pouring everything into a job that drained me—creatively, mentally, everything-ly. So I cut that cord too. And from that decision, Nomad+Mime was born. Because no one should have to sacrifice their sanity, creativity, or self-worth just to survive in a toxic environment.

Further Reading: Understanding the Stress Response

Things You’re Allowed to Say Without Guilt

Life is too short to spend with people who make you feel like garbage. If you need a script, try these:
✔️ “I’d love to stay and argue, but my mental health said no.”
✔️ “I’m choosing peace, and you are simply not invited.”
✔️ “Oh no, my calendar is completely booked with not dealing with this.”

At the end of the day, toxic people will always find a way to make you feel guilty for prioritizing yourself. But here’s the truth: you’re not a bad person for walking away. You’re just finally treating yourself with the same kindness you gave them, for way too long.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to enjoy my drama-free life. And maybe a celebratory White Russian. Because, honestly? I deserve it. And so do you.