“Validation is for parking. Humans need to be appreciated." Ever heard that phrase? There’s a lot of truth in that. When you’re in a healthy relationship with someone, they're going to make

the time to encourage and support you. A part of what that consists of is affirming you and celebrating you. They’re going to see the good in you and make

sure that you see it, too. If the people in your life aren’t doing this, something is wrong. Very wrong.

Negative people are bad for your health. Yes, literally. They can drain your energy. They can up your stress levels. They can cause you to become bitter and a downer.

They can even play a role in totally rewiring your brain (because studies indicate that complaining does that and complaining is a first cousin of negativity). 

All of

us have bad moments, bad days even. But if you can set your watch around someone having something negative to say, each and every time you talk to them, rethink

why you’re close to them. Are they bringing more positivity or negativity into your life? And your overall health?

You shouldn't give just to get. That’s true. You also shouldn't be the only one on the giving end of a relationship and call it, well, a relationship. 

If you’re doing most

of the calling, most of the supporting, most of the birthday and special occasions remembering while they're always busy, always forgetting or always blowing you and your needs off, that’s toxic. 

Healthy relationships are about a mutual exchange. No one should feel overwhelmed because they're doing most of the work, most of the time.

Again, toxic means harmful. Someone who does harmful things can end up causing others physical injury, mental damage or even moral injury. 

Do the people in your life ALWAYS seem

to have some sort of drama going on? Do they constantly make you feel like you’re watching a live-and-in-living color VH1 reality show? 

Why do you want to be a part

of that? What good is it bringing into your life? Don’t worry, we’ll wait.

Toxic people have a tendency to always want to control other people. Mostly because they feel like their lives are spinning. 

You’re an adult. Therefore, no one should be telling

you what to do or constantly looking for ways to take advantage of your time, resources or anything else. 

If you don’t feel like your wants, needs or even standards

and opinions are being respected in one of your relationships, guess what? You’re probably right. 

You don’t necessarily have to burn any bridges, but definitely cut those puppet strings. If

they love you for you, they’ll stick around and adjust accordingly. If they leave? Hold the door open for them so that they can go in peace, so that you

can get on to some healthier relationships.