7 types of people you need to leave behind, according to psychology

Navigating relationships can be a tricky business, especially when it comes to deciding who should stay in your life and who needs to go.

According to psychology, there are certain types of people that can hinder your personal growth and happiness. 

In this article, we’re going to explore the seven types of people you might need to distance yourself from, as suggested by psychologists. This isn’t about being selfish; it’s about self-preservation.

So buckle up, and let’s dive into some valuable insights that could potentially change your life for the better.

1) The energy vampires

Ever felt completely drained after spending time with a certain individual?

Welcome to the realm of energy vampires. These are people who seem to suck the life out of you, leaving you feeling exhausted and overwhelmed.

Psychologists often refer to energy vampires as those who display narcissistic or borderline personality traits. They tend to be incredibly draining because they require constant attention and validation, often at the expense of your own emotional well-being.

So consider setting boundaries or distancing yourself if you frequently feel drained or overwhelmed after interacting with someone. Remember, it’s not selfish to protect your energy and well-being.

2) The constant critic

We’ve all had that one person in our lives who never seems to be satisfied, right?

In my case, it was a childhood friend who always found something to criticize. Whether it was my choice of clothes, the music I listened to, or even the way I laughed – nothing ever seemed good enough for her.

At first, I believed it was just her way of helping me improve.

But over time, I realized that this constant criticism was affecting my self-esteem. I began second-guessing myself, questioning my choices and feeling inadequate.

Psychology suggests that constant critics often struggle with feelings of insecurity and inadequacy themselves, projecting these onto others as a defense mechanism.

It took me a while to realize this, but eventually, I made the tough decision to distance myself from her. It was hard, but my confidence and self-esteem improved significantly once I did.

Remember, constructive criticism is helpful, but when it becomes a constant stream of negativity, it might be time to reassess the relationship.

3) The drama magnet

Drama magnets are those people who always seem to be in the middle of a crisis. Their lives are a perpetual soap opera, filled with conflicts, problems, and emotional turmoil.

While it’s normal for everyone to experience ups and downs, drama magnets seem to thrive on chaos. They often create unnecessary conflict and seem to enjoy being the center of attention.

Interestingly, psychologists suggest that some people might be addicted to drama because it provides them with a rush of adrenaline. This thrill can be similar to what risk-takers or extreme sports enthusiasts experience.

If you find yourself constantly getting sucked into someone else’s drama, it may be time to step back.

Maintaining your peace of mind is essential, and sometimes that means distancing yourself from the chaos.

4) The perpetual pessimist

Ever noticed how some people always see the glass as half-empty?

These are the perpetual pessimists. No matter what, they always find something to complain about.

Pessimists can be challenging to be around. Their negativity can be contagious, and before you know it, you might find yourself adopting a similar mindset.

While it’s important to be there for friends in tough times, being around constant negativity can be detrimental to your mental health.

It might be best to limit exposure to such individuals if it starts affecting your positive outlook.

5) The non-reciprocator

In any relationship, there needs to be a balance of give and take. But what happens when you’re the one always giving?

I recall a time when I was always the one initiating contact, making plans, and putting in the effort to keep a friendship alive.

I’d listen to their problems, offer support, but when I needed someone to lean on, they were nowhere to be found.

This is what psychologists refer to as a non-reciprocal relationship. It’s a one-sided relationship where one person is always giving, and the other is always taking.

It’s important to understand that relationships should not be transactions, but they should also not be one-way streets. 

So it’s okay to re-evaluate and distance yourself from relationships that leave you feeling drained and unappreciated.

6) The guilt-tripper

Guilt-trippers know just how to make you feel bad for not doing what they want. They may use emotional manipulation, play the victim, or constantly remind you of past favors to get their way.

According to psychology, guilt-tripping is a form of emotional manipulation. It’s a tactic used by individuals who are unable or unwilling to ask for what they want in a direct manner.

While it’s okay to feel guilty when you’ve done something wrong, feeling guilty for asserting your needs or setting boundaries is not healthy.

If someone consistently makes you feel guilty for living your life on your terms, it might be time to reconsider their place in your life. Remember, guilt is a heavy burden to carry, and you don’t have to shoulder it for someone else’s benefit.

7) The manipulator

The most dangerous of all these types, perhaps, is the manipulator. These individuals are experts at:

  • Twisting situations
  • Using your words against you
  • Making you question your own perception of reality

Psychologists refer to this tactic as gaslighting.

It’s a form of psychological manipulation where a person seeks to sow seeds of doubt in a targeted individual or group, making them question their own memory, perception, or sanity.

Manipulators are challenging to deal with because they’re often very good at what they do. However, once you recognize the signs, it’s crucial to stand your ground and distance yourself.

You deserve respect and honesty in your relationships. Don’t let anyone make you feel otherwise.

Final thoughts: It’s about self-care

At the core of our interactions with others lies a crucial principle: self-care. This isn’t about selfishness; it’s about maintaining our mental and emotional health.

Psychology underscores the profound impact our relationships can have on us. The people we surround ourselves with can significantly influence our thoughts, feelings, and actions.

The decision to leave people behind isn’t easy. We’re wired for connection, after all. But sometimes, prioritizing our well-being involves making tough choices.

Remember, you have the right to distance yourself from individuals who drain you emotionally or manipulate your feelings. It’s not just about preserving your peace; it’s about nurturing your own growth.

As you reflect on your relationships, consider this: Are they enriching your life, or are they pulling you down? Your answer could be a crucial first step towards creating a healthier, happier life. It’s your journey, after all.

Ava Sinclair

Ava Sinclair is a former competitive athlete who transitioned into the world of wellness and mindfulness. Her journey through the highs and lows of competitive sports has given her a unique perspective on resilience and mental toughness. Ava’s writing reflects her belief in the power of small, daily habits to create lasting change.

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