Let’s get real for a moment. Toxicity—whether it shows up in relationships, workplaces, or our own thoughts—can sneak in quietly and take up space where peace, joy, and growth are meant to live. But guess what? You have the power to evict it. Right now. Today.

I know what it feels like to be surrounded by energy that drains you, by people who diminish your light, or situations that make you question your worth. But I also know the strength it takes to stand up, say “no more,” and walk toward the life you were meant to live. That power lives inside of you.

Here’s how to start taking bold steps toward peace and purpose—and away from toxicity:

1. Trust Your Inner Alarm

You know that gut feeling that something just isn’t right? Listen to it. That inner nudge is your soul saying, “Protect me.” Pay attention to how people and environments make you feel. If you constantly feel anxious, drained, or not enough—you may be standing in the middle of toxicity.

Empowering Action: Keep a “vibe check” journal for one week. Write down how you feel after interactions. Patterns will reveal the truth.

2. Name It to Tame It

Toxicity thrives in silence. When we pretend things are “fine,” we give it permission to grow. Whether it’s emotional manipulation, chronic negativity, gaslighting, or just constant complaining—it’s okay to call it what it is. Naming the behavior doesn’t make you dramatic. It makes you aware.

Empowering Action: Write a bold list of what you will no longer tolerate. Stick it on your mirror. Let it be your daily declaration of self-respect.

3. Set Boundaries Like a Boss

Boundaries are not walls; they are bridges to a better you. You don’t owe anyone unlimited access to your energy, time, or heart. Saying “no” doesn’t make you selfish—it makes you sovereign.

Empowering Action: Practice a “power phrase” like, “That doesn’t work for me,” or “I’m not available for that energy.” Use it often and unapologetically.

4. Detox Your Circle

Look around. Are the people in your life adding to your vision or draining your dreams? Relationships should inspire, not expire, your energy. Choose connection over obligation. Choose growth over guilt.

Empowering Action: Identify your “energy vampires” and create space. Make room for people who water your soul, not those who walk through your life with muddy boots.

5. Heal the Inside Job

Sometimes, the toxicity isn’t just out there—it’s in the beliefs we’ve absorbed. The inner critic, the self-doubt, the “I’m not enough” loop. It’s time to cancel that subscription.

Empowering Action: Start each day with one empowering affirmation. Say it like you mean it. Say it until you believe it. Example: “I release what no longer serves me and rise into who I’m becoming.”

6. Choose Environments that Align with Your Elevation

If the space you’re in doesn’t celebrate your growth, it’s not your space. Whether it’s your workplace, friend circle, or even your own home—your dreams deserve nurturing soil.

Empowering Action: Curate your spaces—digitally and physically. Unfollow accounts that don’t align with your joy. Fill your feed, your room, your mind with light.

7. Get Support, Not Just Strength

You don’t have to do it alone. Coaches, therapists, mentors, and soul sisters are here for a reason. Strength isn’t suffering in silence—it’s raising your hand and saying, “Help me rise.”

Empowering Action: Schedule time to talk to someone who can hold space for your healing. You deserve it.

Final Word: You Are Not What You’ve Been Through

You are powerful. You are resilient. You are allowed to outgrow the things and people that hurt you. And you don’t need anyone’s permission to walk boldly in the direction of your peace.

Toxicity may try to dim your light—but your decision to rise is more powerful than anything trying to hold you down.

Now breathe deep, stand tall, and remember this: You were born to Empower. You were born to Transform. You were born to Achieve.

Let’s walk in that truth—together.