It was my fault toxic people had access to me💔

It’s so true what the original post says about realizing the problem wasn't just *them*, but us allowing that access. I’ve been there, feeling like I was constantly giving, compromising, and twisting myself into knots, only to realize I was living in a relationship with a massive power imbalance. It’s a tough pill to swallow, isn't it? But recognizing it is the first, crucial step to reclaiming your peace and building that amazing relationship with yourself, just like she did. So, what does a power imbalance actually look like, beyond just feeling 'off'? For me, it was always feeling like my voice didn't matter. My partner would make all the plans, decisions, even choose what we watched. My feelings were often dismissed, or worse, turned around to make me feel guilty for having them. I'd walk on eggshells, constantly trying to anticipate their mood, and found myself apologizing for things I hadn't even done. If you find yourself constantly adjusting your life, your schedule, or even your personality to suit someone else, that's a huge red flag. Another common sign is when one person consistently controls resources – be it time, money, or even access to friends and family. It’s subtle at first, like a slow drip, but eventually, you feel completely drained and stuck. Why do we allow this to happen? Often, it stems from a place of fear: fear of being alone, fear of conflict, or even a deep-seated belief that we don't deserve better. Society often tells us, especially women, that our worth is tied to being in a relationship, which can make us cling to unhealthy dynamics. But as the author beautifully shared, that narrative is simply not true. My journey, much like hers, involved challenging those ingrained beliefs and realizing that my happiness wasn't dependent on another person. Reclaiming your power isn't a one-time event; it's a process of conscious, daily choices. Here’s what helped me, and what I see reflected in her amazing transformation: First, self-awareness. Start journaling, just like she mentioned. What triggers you? When do you feel powerless? What makes you truly happy? This honest reflection is key. Second, setting firm boundaries. This means really learning to say 'no' without guilt. It could be as simple as 'No, I can't meet today, I have plans with myself' or 'No, that comment isn't okay with me.' It's about protecting your energy and time. Remember that feeling of 'Summer Vibes' and building a relationship with yourself? That's what it's all about! Third, nurturing your own passions. The author talked about watching old cartoons and collecting Bratz dolls – these seemingly small acts of self-indulgence are powerful. They remind you of who you are outside of any relationship. I started dedicating time to my curly hair routine, letting it be a symbol of my care for myself, and picking up old hobbies. Fourth, building a strong support system with friends who genuinely uplift you, not drain you. Sometimes, you need an outside perspective to help you see the imbalance clearly. Ultimately, reclaiming your power is about understanding that you are worthy, complete, and capable of creating your own happiness. It’s about being kind to yourself, just like the author said, and not letting just anyone have easy access to your inner world. It's a journey of self-love that leads to genuine strength.