Sometimes we are in certain stages of our lives wherein we feel trapped. A feeling of being squeezed into a pipe. Walls closing in. Falling into an endless pit.

In times like these, we find ourselves looking for a tether. A source to help us through this mind-boggling phase. While few are lucky to find a genuine most of us get caught up in dealing with toxic people.

Most of the times it is easy to identify the negative influence. It’s apparent. Smoking, drugs and any other illegal activity screams red signal. However, deception has its own subtlety. Some people are demanding, emotionally unstable, frustration, cunning, unpleasant. This has its own way of taking a toll on us.

And when it does, that’s when it’s time to get rid of this ‘toxic’ influence our lives.

Ask a simple question – “Am I truly happy?”

If the answer is “No” and the reason behind it is some person, it’s time to cut off. If a person is forcing a habit upon you. If they are messing up your emotions. Needling with you just for fun. It’s time to put a stop to it.

Always remember, we are not obliged to anyone but ourselves. Do things that make you happy. Eliminate anyone that does not.

Here are certain points which can help you decide if it’s time to let go of a toxic person:

• Do they manipulate you?
• Are too demanding?
• Invade your personal space?
• Do you benefit from the relationship as much as they do?
• Do they take responsibility?
• Being with them is a burden for you?

Answer these questions and decide for yourself.

Often influence of a toxic person not only affects us emotionally, but physical health takes a hit as well. Sometimes, our other relationships begin to feel the strain of this.

Toxicity is like a parasite feeding off its host. A toxic person takes immense pleasure in watching you doubt yourself, lose self-confidence and flounder with decisions.

This hinders your path of self-improvement. This makes you irritable, bitter and before you know it you turn into a parasite yourself.

It is time to take your life into your own hands. To take the power away from such toxic people. To let them stop getting under your skin. To break the closing walls to the light outside.