As we step into a new year, it’s time to take stock of the relationships we keep. Some people drain your energy, shake your confidence, and keep you stuck—without you even realizing it. Inspired by a post from Molly Burford, let’s talk about the types of people you need to let go of in 2025 to protect your peace, nurture your growth, and reclaim your self-worth.
1. The One Who Makes You Guess Where You Stand
Uncertainty is not a personality trait—it’s emotional manipulation. If someone constantly leaves you wondering about their intentions, it’s time to step back. You deserve clarity, consistency, and respect.
2. The One Who Leaves You Questioning Your Worth
Ever had someone make you doubt yourself? Maybe they dismiss your accomplishments or subtly undermine your confidence. According to Dr. Brené Brown, self-worth isn’t up for debate—it should be rooted in who you are, not how others treat you.
3. The Convenience Friend
They only call when they need something. They disappear when you need them. Friendships should be mutually enriching, not one-sided transactions.
4. The Inconsistent
They “remember” you when it’s convenient for them. These friendships can feel like emotional rollercoasters, and as Dr. Henry Cloud notes in Boundaries, consistency is the foundation of healthy, stable relationships.
5. The Endless Excuse-Maker
They always have a reason for not showing up, for flaking, for their lack of effort. Excuses get old—effort matters.
6. The Ex Who Has Definitely Moved On
You deserve love that chooses you back. Holding onto an ex who has emotionally checked out only keeps you from moving forward. Let them go.
7. The Bare Minimum Giver
Friendship and love shouldn’t feel like a struggle for breadcrumbs. If someone constantly puts in the least effort possible, believe them.
8. The Former Best Friend Who Only Took, Never Gave
Sometimes, friendships run their course—especially when they were built on one person always giving and the other always taking.
9. The One Who Enjoys Embarrassing Others
If someone finds joy in humiliating others—whether through jokes, public callouts, or passive-aggressive digs—it says more about them than their target. Distance yourself.
10. The Gossip Addict
If they talk about their friends behind their backs, they’re likely doing the same to you. Surround yourself with people who celebrate, not sabotage.
11. The One You Have to Shape-Shift Around
If you can’t be yourself around someone without fear of rejection or judgment, that’s not love—it’s performance. True connections accept you as you are.
12. The Half-Listener & Dishonest Conversationalist
They don’t really listen, or worse—they use what you share against you later. Dr. John Gottman emphasizes the power of active listening in healthy relationships. If they can’t engage genuinely, it’s a sign to walk away.
13. The High School Bully Who Never Grew Up
Some people still operate with the same mean-spirited, cliquish energy they did in school. If they haven’t evolved, you don’t need them in your space.
14. The Forced Connection
You shouldn’t have to force conversations, force plans, or force compatibility. Relationships should feel natural, not like work.
15. The Joy-Killer
If someone always mocks your excitement, belittles your wins, or makes you feel guilty for being happy, they don’t belong in your inner circle.
16. The One Who Uses Your Vulnerability Against You
Your secrets, struggles, and insecurities should be safe with those you trust. If someone weaponizes your past against you, cut them off.
17. The One Who Brings Out Your Insecurities on Purpose
Confidence isn’t built in toxic environments. If someone deliberately pokes at your self-doubts, they aren’t your people.
18. The Disinterested
If someone acts bored, detached, or indifferent toward you, don’t beg for attention. You deserve reciprocity.
19. The Relationship That Hurts More Than It Heals
Love, friendship, or family—if it’s constant stress, pain, or anxiety, it’s time to re-evaluate. Relationships should be safe havens, not battlefields.
20. Anyone Who Makes You Feel Small
No one who truly cares about you will make you shrink, second-guess, or silence yourself.
21. Anyone Who Came to Mind While Reading This
If you thought of someone specific while going through this list, that’s your intuition speaking. Trust it.
Final Thoughts: Choose Yourself This Year
Psychologists like Dr. Jordan Peterson and Dr. Carol Dweck emphasize that the people we surround ourselves with deeply influence our mindset, self-esteem, and growth. Letting go isn’t about being cruel—it’s about prioritizing your mental and emotional well-being.
As we enter 2025, choose relationships that pour into you, not drain you. Let go with love—and step forward in peace.
Reflection Questions:
💡 Which of these types of people have you tolerated for too long?
💡 What’s one small step you can take toward setting healthier boundaries?
💡 How will you prioritize relationships that align with your well-being in 2025?
Let me know in the comments! #PersonalGrowth #Boundaries #SelfWorth #ToxicRelationships #MentalWellness #KenyanMindAndJustice #LetGoAndGrow
