Holly Riordan

Remember, it doesn’t matter whether anyone else understands. There are going to be people in your life with good intentions who say the wrong thing at the wrong time.

Everyone with anxiety is different, but if they’re anything like me, here are some things you should never do to your partner: Don’t tell them we need to talk. Don’t be vague.

There are so many assholes wandering around this world that it can be hard to remember there are good people too. People who are trying their hardest to do the right thing.

You didn’t get your heart broken because you were too stupid to see the red flags.

Don’t assume it’s your fault your almost relationship never became something more.

You can’t do everything at once. Even though it might help to create a list of things you need to accomplish this week, dwelling on all those tasks might feel overwhelming.

Whenever someone hurts you, you forgive them without a second thought. If someone makes the same mistakes over and over again, they are no longer mistakes. They are conscious choices.

Most people don’t understand that you can’t stop your anxiety in its tracks. While breathing exercises and positive thinking can be helpful, those things aren’t going to magically make your anxious thoughts disappear.

They need constant praise. If you choose anyone over them, even yourself and your own mental health, there’s going to be hell to pay. You’re not allowed to place other friends, family members, or even pets above them.

It takes effort to love you. Toxic humans will make you feel like you’re unlovable, so they get credit for putting up with you. However, the right person won’t feel like you’re a burden.

It’s hard to stay soft in a world that is filled with so much pain. You should be proud of yourself for having such strong morals, for leading with kindness, for continuing to love with your whole heart.

Walking away from someone toxic is hard enough. However, not enough people talk about how hard it is to stay away.

Some people play mind games and pretend not to care in order to attract partners – but there are other ways to find love. There are people out there who appreciate honesty and vulnerability.

You probably aren’t as clingy as you’ve been led to believe. Some people will act like your behavior is unacceptable because your strong feelings are making them uncomfortable.

Your value doesn’t come from your productivity. You don’t have to earn a break. If you’re tired, you should take a breather because you’re a living creature who deserves to feel rested and relaxed.

Healing is a journey that lasts a lifetime. Even though you want to wake up in the morning completely healed, that isn’t the way pain works. You are going to have good days and bad days.

Sometimes, relationships can be repaired with enough tough conversations and compromises. Sometimes, communicating will at least give you some sense of closure. Other times, dealing with this person is not worth the headache they will give you.

It doesn’t matter whether you do the right thing. It doesn’t matter whether you treat everyone around you with love and respect. Your hard work isn’t always going to be appreciated.