Holly Riordan

Some friendships are toxic. And some people who used to be good influences on each other grow apart over time.

You’ve lost family members and friends because you set new boundaries. These people might feel like you were being unreasonable. They might have accused you of changing because you started to develop standards.

Sometimes, reaching out to them will do more harm than good.

You don’t need to be the bigger person when being the bigger person means compromising your morals, thoughts, and beliefs. You don’t have to be polite in order to keep the peace and avoid confrontation.

If they really cared about you, then they would put effort into loving you wholly. They wouldn’t keep making so many mistakes. They wouldn’t be giving you more and more reasons to cry into your pillowcase.

It’s frustrating when you keep ending up in almost relationships when you’ve been wanting something serious. However, almost relationships are becoming more and more common.

You’ll feel discouraged. Even though you’re passionate about what you’re pursuing and know you have what it takes to reach your dreams, it’s not easy dealing with failure after failure.

He texts you at reasonable hours — when he’s sober. He’s not waiting until two in the morning, after having several drinks, to get in touch with you. He’s already thinking about you earlier on in the day.

Because you have history together. You’re allowed to leave at any time. It doesn’t matter if you’ve been with this person for three months, three years, or three decades.

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.