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Many people feel like they need the approval of others to be happy. This is not rational thinking. We live in a society where people are constantly comparing themselves to one another — an environment that is not conducive to happiness. If you want to be independent, this post will outline 7 steps you can take towards achieving emotional independence from others.
Step 1: Remove negative influences from your life.
If you have a friend or family member involved in a relationship that is abusive, toxic, or just plain negative for you, then it is time to remove them from your life. As hard as it might be, you have to do what makes you happy.
The problem with toxic people is once they get a hold on you, they never let go. They slowly poison your mind and drain your energy. Eventually, if left unchecked they will suck the life right out of you until there is nothing left to give.
Toxic people are self-serving and manipulative — all they want is to control another human being for personal gain — not true friendship or love. They make you their victim. No one has the right to abuse and manipulate another human being and it is best to remove them from your life.