Woman Gives 7 ‘Brutally Honest’ Reasons She Keeps Cutting People Out of Her Life

Relationship dynamics and love are complex concepts that are challenging to navigate, particularly in a toxic environment. However, everyone makes mistakes. Therefore, knowing when to cut someone off can be hard. Luckily, experts have shared some insights, highlighting when it’s time to walk away or try to work things out.

Reason Number 1

January Nelson wrote a piece for Thought Catalog, sharing her thoughts on walking away from a relationship, friendship, or otherwise. She also explained she has 7 major reasons for why she “keeps cutting people” from her life. Nelson shared that her top reason for removing people from her life is she’s tired of being a pushover. “I’m done remaining silent when someone says something hurtful or offensive. Now that I’m finally standing up for myself, it causes problems in my friendships and relationships. Some people can’t handle the change.” Nelson wrote.

Reason Number 2

Life is too short to be surrounded by people who don’t value your feelings, needs, or opinions. It’s exhausting to waste energy explaining over and over, upsetting behaviors that have been addressed in the past. Nelson explains: “I’m not going to keep getting mad at someone for disrespecting me. If they do it once, I might give them another shot. But if they repeat the behavior, then it doesn’t matter if they sputter out an apology.”

Reason Number 3

Differing morals is another great reason to consider cutting someone from your life. Nelson notes that “it’s one thing to have differing opinions.” However, she notes that “hating a group of people” isn’t the same as not liking the same movies or foods. “I don’t have time for racists or misogynists or homophobes or transphobes. I shouldn’t have to explain why someone’s life is worthwhile, I shouldn’t have to push you to care about other people.” She adds.

Reason Number 4

People don’t always contribute to the greater good of one’s life. Nelson discloses that she no longer associates with people who bring more “stress than excitement” to her life.

Reason Number 5

She’s finding her voice. Nelson shares that she doesn’t care how people perceive her for sticking up for herself and others. She’s outgrown the need to keep quiet to keep the peace.

Reason Number 6

Comfort is a big problem for people because they’ll often put their own needs or wants aside for the benefit of others. However, everyone deserves to feel comfortable. “I’m not going to put myself through stress, just to seem polite,” Nelson explained, prioritizing her mental health. “I don’t believe you should be forced to interact with someone toxic simply because they’re family or because you’ve known them forever. If you make me miserable, I’m cutting you out of my life.”

Reason Number 7

Life takes over and people naturally drift apart, sometimes without hard feelings or a falling out. Nelson explains that sometimes she “simply forgets” to text someone back. Eventually, that creates enough distance between them to remove them from her life.

Experts Suggest an Evaluation

While Nelson’s points are valid and worth considering, it’s also worth noting there are healthy and effective ways to remove someone from your life and there are instances in which it may be more advantageous to talk things through. First, consider a few things like whether or not your boundaries have been communicated clearly. If so, then assess how often they’re being disregarded. If the answer to that is more often than not, it may be a good time to consider walking away. Furthermore, consider whether the relationship brings more joy than stress to your life, or vice versa. Last, if the person is emotionally or physically abusive, it’s best to seek professional help to leave the situation.

Don’t Ghost Level Heads

People who have a history of violence or abuse may not handle confrontation well. As such, some situations can be dangerous and are best left alone. However, people who are more level-headed or have fewer mental health challenges may be more receptive to a conversation. Furthermore, they might appreciate not being ghosted. It’s difficult to have uncomfortable, hurtful, or critical conversations, but there’s a way to help de-escalate negative feelings. Just treat the other person how you would want to be treated. Speak to them with grace and compassion, rather than accusatory. A healthy relationship, be it a friendship, partnership, or relationship with a family member, has open communication and mutual respect.