Ah, the annual tradition of “New Year, New Me” is upon us again—complete with vision boards, juice cleanses, and the ever-popular cutting people off who no longer serve your purpose declaration.
Except this year… I sat down with my iced matcha, opened my notes app, and realized… I have no one left to cut off.
Not a single drama magnet. Not a one-sided friendship. Not even that coworker who always “forgets” their wallet at lunch.
Why? Because I did the emotional spring cleaning before it was trendy. I stopped hanging out with people I didn’t even like. I stopped entertaining folks who drained my energy faster than my phone on 1% with five apps running. I stopped sacrificing my peace to keep fake connections alive.
The Evolution of My Circle (Spoiler: It’s a Dot Now)
There was a time—maybe not that long ago—when my life was cluttered with folks who:
Only called when they needed something
Were allergic to accountability
Thought my kindness was a buffet they could feast on endlessly
But somewhere between journaling, shadow work, and rage-cleaning my contact list, I learned the difference between being kind and being a doormat. I realized that loyalty isn’t about length of time—it’s about mutual respect, energy exchange, and genuinely liking each other’s presence.
So if you’re reading this and wondering how I got here, let me give you the blueprint:
🔮 Step 1: Stop Forcing Vibes That Don’t Fit
If you have to mentally prepare yourself to hang out with someone… that’s a sign. Real ones give you peace, not pressure. You’re allowed to grow out of people, even the ones who’ve “been around forever.” Longevity doesn’t equal loyalty.
✂️ Step 2: Clean Out Your Emotional Closet
Just like that shirt you haven’t worn since 2011 but won’t throw out “just in case”—some relationships are clutter. If someone is using you like an emotional ATM or treating your presence like a convenience store, it’s time to hit delete. (Or at least mute.)
🛑 Step 3: Boundaries Are Self-Love, Not Rebellion
Saying “no” is a full sentence. And if they only loved you when you said yes, that wasn’t love—it was access. Protect your energy like it’s Beyoncé tickets. Limited. Valuable. Not for everyone.
👏 I’m Not Cold, I’m Cured
It’s not that I’m bitter. It’s not that I hate people (okay, maybe some). It’s just that in 2025, I finally gave myself permission to choose me—without guilt, without drama, without over-explaining to folks who were never listening anyway.
The goal now isn’t revenge or proving a point. It’s peace. It’s aligned friendships. It’s relationships that fill, not drain. And let me tell you—the silence is delicious.
🧠 Resources for Your Cut-Off Era (or Prevention Plan)
“Set Boundaries, Find Peace” by Nedra Glover Tawwab A must-read for anyone learning how to say “no” without having a full-blown anxiety spiral.
“The Drama of the Gifted Child” by Alice Miller For those of us who were taught to people-please as a form of survival. Break the cycle.
Therapy (yes, real therapy) Sites like BetterHelp or Open Path Collective offer affordable sessions for boundary-building and healing old wounds.
Podcasts like “The Adult Chair” or “Therapy Chat” Because sometimes hearing other people’s healing helps you walk through your own.
Final Thought
If your circle got smaller, don’t mourn it—celebrate it. You’re no longer available for confusion, disrespect, or lukewarm loyalty. You’re not cutting folks off out of spite—you’re cutting off access to your peace, and that’s sacred.
So here’s to the real ones. The few. The aligned. The vibe-checked. And to you, dear reader—welcome to the soft life, where peace is protected and drama gets zero screen time.
Let’s get one thing straight right off the bat: I avoid drama not because I’m scared of you—but because I’m deeply, respectfully, and wholeheartedly scared of me.
Now, before you clutch your pearls, let me explain.
You see, some people are naturally calm under pressure. They meditate. They journal. They light a sage bundle and whisper affirmations into the void. Me? I’ve got a different system—one that involves recognizing the red flags before I turn into a full-blown hurricane with a driver’s license.
There’s a phrase I’ve lovingly coined: “zero to prison.” And no, it’s not a joke I take lightly. It’s just that I know myself. I’ve spent years learning how to self-regulate, breathe through conflict, and walk away when the heat rises. Not because I can’t clap back, but because I know that if I do… well, someone’s going to need bail money. And I like my weekends free, thank you very much.
The Real Reason I Keep the Peace
Here’s the truth no one tells you: choosing peace is not weakness—it’s self-awareness. It’s knowing that your tongue is a sword and your temper is nuclear. It’s realizing that not every battle is worth the energy, especially when you’ve worked so hard to heal, to grow, and to protect the calm you fought like hell to earn.
I’ve been through enough chaos in my life to know I don’t want to be the source of it anymore. I’d rather light a candle than light someone up (verbally, of course). I’d rather set boundaries than set the record straight with a scream. Because that old version of me? She’s still in there. And she can still throw down if needed—but these days, she prefers throw pillows and herbal tea.
What Drama Really Costs
Drama is expensive. It costs you your peace, your sleep, and sometimes your dignity. And when you’ve finally gotten your mind, body, and spirit into alignment, you realize just how precious peace really is. It’s not that I won’t defend myself—oh, I will. But I now ask myself, “Is this worth stepping out of character for?” And 9.5 times out of 10, the answer is nah.
A Spell of Self-Control
For anyone out there who feels this in their soul, here’s a little mantra:
“I choose calm not because I can’t raise hell, but because I’d rather raise standards.”
So to the ones who think silence means weakness, or that avoiding drama means you “won”—bless your heart. I’m not running scared. I’m just protecting you from meeting the me I’ve buried under years of growth and therapy.
Closing Thoughts Let’s normalize walking away, setting boundaries, and sipping tea instead of spilling it. Let’s be the kind of women who know their power and use it wisely. And if you ever catch me in the middle of a storm, know this: I tried really hard to avoid it. 😌
Until next time, stay calm, stay grounded, and remember—sometimes peace is the real flex.
Love Me as I Am: The Art of Accepting and Being Accepted”
By A.L. Childers
There’s a special kind of magic in being loved exactly as you are—flaws, quirks, and all. It’s the kind of love that doesn’t ask you to hide your imperfections or polish your rough edges. It’s raw, real, and rare, and when you find it, you know you’ve stumbled upon something extraordinary.
But here’s the catch: so many of us spend our lives trying to be “better” versions of ourselves, hoping to meet someone else’s expectations. We tweak the way we dress, the way we talk, even the way we dream—all in the name of love. And while self-improvement can be beautiful, there’s something undeniably romantic about two people who see each other’s faults and say, “That’s okay—I’m staying.”
The Power of “Take Me as I Am”
Imagine a love where you don’t have to explain your bad jokes, your messy mornings, or your occasional moments of stubbornness. A love that doesn’t just tolerate your imperfections but treasures them because they’re part of what makes you, you. That’s the kind of love we all crave but don’t often talk about.
It’s the quiet reassurance that when you forget to text back, laugh too loudly, or cry during cheesy movies, the person beside you isn’t rolling their eyes. They’re smiling. They’re thinking, “That’s the person I adore.”
What True Acceptance Looks Like
True acceptance isn’t about ignoring each other’s flaws—it’s about holding space for them. It’s about looking at someone’s stubbornness or impulsiveness and realizing those same traits are often tied to their courage or creativity. It’s about understanding that we’re all a little messy and loving each other not in spite of it but because of it.
It’s the way they hold you a little tighter when you’re overwhelmed. It’s the way they tell you, “You don’t need to change a thing,” and actually mean it.
The Humor in Imperfection
And let’s not forget—our quirks are often what make us laugh the hardest. Who hasn’t rolled their eyes lovingly when their partner insists on using the same mug every morning because it’s their “lucky mug”? Or when they burst into an off-key rendition of their favorite song while cooking? These little moments remind us that love isn’t about perfection. It’s about joy, humor, and connection.
A Simple Promise
When you love someone, you’re making a promise: to hold them close, to celebrate their triumphs, and to stay through their stumbles. You’re saying, “I see you—all of you—and I wouldn’t change a thing.”
In a world that’s always telling us to be more, do more, and fix what’s “wrong,” there’s something revolutionary about loving someone exactly as they are. So, if you’re lucky enough to find that kind of love—or if you’re brave enough to offer it—hold on tight.
Because when you look back, you won’t remember the polished moments or the perfect words. You’ll remember the laughter, the late-night talks, the way their hand felt in yours when you needed it most.
And isn’t that what love is all about?
💌 Let’s Talk: What quirks or imperfections do you secretly love about your partner? Or, better yet, what’s something about you that someone has loved, just as it is? Share your story below—I’d love to hear about the ways love shows up in all its messy, magical glory.
—A.L. Childers
Disclaimer
The information and recipes in the blog are based on the author’s research and personal experiences. It’s for entertainment purpIt’s only. Every attempt has been made to provide accurate, up-to-date, and reliable information. No warranties of any kind are expressed or implied. Readers acknowledge that the author does not render legal, financial, medical, or professional advice. By reading this blog, the reader agrees that under no circumstance the author is not responsible for any direct or indirect loss incurred by using the information contained within this blog. Including but not limited to errors, omissions, or inaccuracies. This blog is not intended to replace what your healthcare provider has suggested. The author is not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences from using any of the suggestions, preparations, or procedures discussed in this blog. All matters about your health should be supervised by a healthcare professional. I am not a doctor or a medical professional. This blog is designed as an educational and entertainment tool only. Please always check with your health practitioner before taking any vitamins, supplements, or herbs, as they may have side effects, especially when combined with medications, alcohol, or other vitamins or supplements. Knowledge is power, educate yourself and find the answer to your healthcare needs. Wisdom is a beautiful thing to seek. I hope this blog will teach and encourage you to take leaps in your life to educate yourself for a happier & healthier life. You have to take ownership of your health.
The views and services offered by Thehypothyroidismismchick.com are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical assistance but as an alternative for those seeking solutions for better health. We do not claim to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease but simply help you make physical and mental changes in your own body to help your body heal itself. Remember that results may vary, and if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a severe condition, you should consult a physician or other appropriate medical professional before using any products or information on this site. Thehypothyroidisimchick.com assumes no responsibility for the use or misuse of this material. Your use of this website indicates your agreement to these terms. Our full disclosure, terms of use, and privacy policy.
The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information on or available through this website, is for general information purposes only. Opinions expressed here are the opinions of the writer. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read or accessed through this website.
This site is designed for educational purposes only and is not engaged in rendering medical advice, legal advice, or professional services. If you feel that you have a medical problem, you should seek the advice of your physician or health care practitioner. For additional information, please see Our full disclosure, terms of use, and privacy policy.
Holistic Wellness: Balancing Mind, Body, and Spirit By A.L. Childers, Published Author and Journalist
In our fast-paced modern world, maintaining health and wellness is more crucial than ever. A balanced approach to fitness, nutrition, mental health, and self-care forms the cornerstone of a fulfilling and resilient life. By focusing on these core aspects, we not only improve our physical well-being but also enhance our emotional resilience, mental clarity, and overall vitality. Let’s dive into how each of these elements can shape a healthier, more balanced life.
Fitness: Strengthening Body and Mind Investing in physical activity is one of the most powerful ways to improve your overall health. Exercise not only strengthens the body but also sharpens the mind, helping reduce the risk of chronic illnesses and improving mental clarity. Whether it’s weightlifting, yoga, running, or a daily walk, consistency is key to long-term health benefits. Start small and build from there—your body will thank you for the effort.
For more insights into modern fitness culture and practical health tips, explore my book Pillaged and Poisoned: America’s Health in Crisis. This book sheds light on the current issues in health and fitness and provides actionable steps to take control of your well-being.
Nutrition: Fueling Your Body with Purpose What we eat has a direct impact on our energy, mood, and long-term health. A diet rich in whole, nutritious foods like vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains provides the fuel our bodies need to thrive. Paying attention to how certain foods make you feel is essential, and limiting processed foods, added sugars, and unhealthy fats can have profound effects on your health. Remember, it’s not about achieving perfection but making mindful, intentional choices that nourish your body.
For those interested in nutrition for both humans and pets, my dog cookbook Pawsitively Nourished: Heartfelt Recipes for Your Dog’s Well-being offers healthy, homemade recipes to help your furry friend thrive, just like you.
Mental Health: Cultivating Inner Strength While often overlooked, mental health is a vital component of overall wellness. Practices like mindfulness, meditation, journaling, and self-compassion can significantly reduce stress and enhance mental clarity. It’s important to recognize when to seek professional support—caring for your mental health is an essential aspect of self-care.
My book The Art of Spiritual Protection: Creating Your Safe Haven delves into mental and spiritual wellness, offering practical tips to protect your energy and create a sanctuary for your peace of mind, no matter what life throws your way.
Self-Care: Prioritizing Your Well-being Self-care is not just about indulgence; it’s about taking the time to listen to your body and respond to its needs. Whether it’s a simple walk in nature, a relaxing bath, or reading a good book, self-care should be a regular part of your routine. The more you invest in yourself, the more resilient and prepared you will be to face life’s challenges.
For more in-depth self-care strategies, both The Art of Spiritual Protection and No Return: A Five-Step Plan to Escape Reincarnation on Prison Planet Earth provide unique perspectives on mental, emotional, and spiritual care.
Final Thoughts Wellness is a journey that involves nurturing your body, mind, and spirit. By focusing on fitness, nutrition, mental health, and self-care, you’re building a strong foundation for a healthier, more fulfilling life. Start today, and take small steps toward a more balanced and joyful existence.
Explore More and Support the Journey If you found this post helpful, I invite you to explore my related works:
Pillaged and Poisoned: America’s Health in Crisis – a deep dive into health and fitness challenges in modern society.
Pawsitively Nourished: Heartfelt Recipes for Your Dog’s Well-being – providing wholesome recipes for your beloved pets.
The Art of Spiritual Protection: Creating Your Safe Haven – offering spiritual and mental self-care strategies.
No Return: A Five-Step Plan to Escape Reincarnation on Prison Planet Earth – an unconventional exploration of holistic wellness.
Order my books or donate to support the blog’s mission of sharing valuable health and wellness insights. Thank you for being part of this journey to better health!
It’s a hard truth to face, but sometimes the people we care about the most are the ones who hurt us deeply. Whether it’s through betrayal, manipulation, or neglect, these toxic relationships can wreak havoc on our emotional well-being. The first step to healing is recognizing that your emotions can be your worst enemy, and sentimentalism is a trap that keeps you bound to those who don’t deserve your love.
The Emotional Trap
Emotions are powerful. They can elevate you to the highest peaks of joy and plunge you into the deepest valleys of despair. When it comes to relationships, our emotions often cloud our judgment. We make excuses for those who hurt us, hold onto memories of better times, and cling to the hope that things will change. This emotional attachment becomes a prison, preventing us from seeing the reality of the situation.
Sentimentalism: The Silent Saboteur
Sentimentalism can be even more insidious. It’s that warm, nostalgic feeling we get when we think about the past. While it’s natural to cherish happy memories, sentimentalism can trap us in a cycle of longing and regret. We start to romanticize the past, forgetting the pain and focusing only on the fleeting moments of happiness. This distorted view keeps us stuck, unable to move forward and find healthier relationships.
Why We Stay
Several factors contribute to why we stay in toxic relationships:
Fear of Loneliness: The fear of being alone can be overwhelming. We convince ourselves that being with someone, even if they’re harmful, is better than being alone.
Low Self-Worth: When someone repeatedly mistreats us, it can erode our self-esteem. We start to believe that we don’t deserve better.
Hope for Change: We hold onto the hope that the person will change, that they’ll realize the error of their ways and treat us better.
Social Pressure: Society often tells us that we need to be in a relationship to be happy or successful. This pressure can make it hard to leave a toxic situation.
Breaking Free
The journey to breaking free from toxic relationships begins with self-awareness. Here are some steps to help you on this path:
Acknowledge the Pain: Accept that you are being hurt. Denial only prolongs the suffering.
Evaluate the Relationship: Look at the relationship objectively. Are you happy? Are your needs being met? Is there mutual respect and support?
Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries and stick to them. Let the person know what behaviors are unacceptable and what the consequences will be if they continue.
Seek Support: Surround yourself with supportive friends and family. Consider talking to a therapist who can help you navigate your emotions and make a plan to leave.
Focus on Self-Care: Prioritize your well-being. Engage in activities that make you happy and build your self-esteem.
Let Go of Sentimentalism: Remind yourself that the past is the past. Focus on the present and the future. It’s okay to cherish good memories, but don’t let them dictate your present decisions.
Moving Forward
Letting go of someone who has hurt you is not easy, but it is necessary for your emotional health and personal growth. Remember, your emotions are not always your allies. They can mislead you, trap you in cycles of pain, and keep you attached to those who don’t deserve your love.
By breaking free from toxic relationships, you open the door to healthier, more fulfilling connections. You deserve to be surrounded by people who respect, support, and genuinely care for you. Don’t let sentimentalism or fear hold you back. Embrace the strength within you, and take the first step towards a brighter, healthier future.
Breaking free is a journey, but it’s one worth taking. You are worth the effort, and your happiness depends on it. Let go of those who hurt you, and embrace the possibilities that lie ahead.
The information and recipes contained in blog is based upon the research and the personal experiences of the author. It’s for entertainment purposes only. Every attempt has been made to provide accurate, up to date and reliable information. No warranties of any kind are expressed or implied. Readers acknowledge that the author is not engaging in the rendering of legal, financial, medical or professional advice. By reading this blog, the reader agrees that under no circumstance the author is not responsible for any loss, direct or indirect, which are incurred by using this information contained within this blog. Including but not limited to errors, omissions or inaccuracies. This blog is not intended as replacements from what your health care provider has suggested. The author is not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any of the suggestions, preparations or procedures discussed in this blog. All matters pertaining to your health should be supervised by a health care professional. I am not a doctor, or a medical professional. This blog is designed for as an educational and entertainment tool only. Please always check with your health practitioner before taking any vitamins, supplements, or herbs, as they may have side-effects, especially when combined with medications, alcohol, or other vitamins or supplements. Knowledge is power, educate yourself and find the answer to your health care needs. Wisdom is a wonderful thing to seek. I hope this blog will teach and encourage you to take leaps in your life to educate yourself for a happier & healthier life. You have to take ownership of your health. The highlighted links are affiliate links in my blogs.
This site is designed for educational purposes only and is not engaged in rendering medical advice, legal advice, or professional services. If you feel that you have a medical problem, you should seek the advice of your physician or health care practitioner. For additional information, please see Our full disclosure, terms of use, and privacy policy.
In the grand tapestry of existence, each of us is a unique thread, woven into the fabric of life with our own intricate patterns and colors. Just as no two snowflakes are alike, no two individuals are the same. We are marvelously complex, each with our own biochemical makeup and story to tell.
As you journey through life, navigating the twists and turns of health and wellness, it’s essential to remember that what works for one may not work for another. Our bodies are as diverse as the stars in the sky, responding uniquely to the nutrients we consume, the products we use, and the environments we inhabit.
Perhaps you, like me, have faced the challenges of a leaky gut, inflammation, or the daunting presence of an autoimmune disorder such as hypothyroidism or Hashimoto’s. But let us not dwell solely on our differences, for in our shared experiences lies the potential for understanding and healing.
Every choice we make, from the food we eat to the products we use in our homes, has a profound impact on our well-being. It’s a beautiful symphony, where each note plays a vital role in the harmony of our health.
My dear friend, this book, “A Women’s Holistic Holy Grail Handbook for Hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s,” is more than just a collection of words on paper. It is a beacon of empowerment, a guiding light on your journey to reclaiming your health and vitality.
Within these pages, you’ll find not a one-size-fits-all solution, but rather a toolkit of knowledge and wisdom to support you on your path. Consider it a companion, walking beside you as you explore the intricate dance of hormones and wellness.
So, embrace your uniqueness, dear one. Embrace the beauty of your individuality, and let this book be a cherished resource in your quest for understanding and healing.
Thehypothyroidismchick.com is a reliable source of health and science news relevant to our generation. They cover a wide range of stories but focus on contributing to their readers’ understanding of a complex and constantly changing field of information. They are driven by two core values: to provide accurate and informative content and to keep in mind the ultimate “smell test” – stories worth discussing with friends at a bar. At Thehypothyroidismchick.com, coverage is determined based on relevance, clinical significance, and editorial integrity. They do not prioritize commercial considerations and always clearly distinguish between factual content, commentary, and opinions to avoid misleading readers with institutional propaganda and speculation. This ensures that readers can trust the information they receive and make informed decisions about their health.
Please follow along with me on this journey of discovery as I share my brush of madness with exquisite clarity. Luckily, I was never a quick fix-it junkie where I said no to many suggestions from board-certified or certifiable doctors because I felt it in my soul that it was merely a bonafide being placed on my issues. The names of sure doctors have been changed because, frankly, I don’t want to be sued for proven the lack in their field.
Hippocrates was right when he said: Let the food be thy medicine and thy medicine be thy food.
Disclaimer
The information and recipes in the blog are based on the author’s research and personal experiences. It’s for entertainment purpIt’s only. Every attempt has been made to provide accurate, up-to-date, and reliable information. No warranties of any kind are expressed or implied. Readers acknowledge that the author does not render legal, financial, medical, or professional advice. By reading this blog, the reader agrees that under no circumstance the author is not responsible for any direct or indirect loss incurred by using the information contained within this blog. Including but not limited to errors, omissions, or inaccuracies. This blog is not intended to replace what your healthcare provider has suggested. The author is not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences from using any of the suggestions, preparations, or procedures discussed in this blog. All matters about your health should be supervised by a healthcare professional. I am not a doctor or a medical professional. This blog is designed as an educational and entertainment tool only. Please always check with your health practitioner before taking any vitamins, supplements, or herbs, as they may have side effects, especially when combined with medications, alcohol, or other vitamins or supplements. Knowledge is power, educate yourself and find the answer to your healthcare needs. Wisdom is a beautiful thing to seek. I hope this blog will teach and encourage you to take leaps in your life to educate yourself for a happier & healthier life. You have to take ownership of your health.
The views and services offered by Thehypothyroidismismchick.com are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical assistance but as an alternative for those seeking solutions for better health. We do not claim to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease but simply help you make physical and mental changes in your own body to help your body heal itself. Remember that results may vary, and if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a severe condition, you should consult a physician or other appropriate medical professional before using any products or information on this site. Thehypothyroidisimchick.com assumes no responsibility for the use or misuse of this material. Your use of this website indicates your agreement to these terms. Our full disclosure, terms of use, and privacy policy.
The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information on or available through this website, is for general information purposes only. Opinions expressed here are the opinions of the writer. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment because of something you have read or accessed through this website.
This site is designed for educational purposes only and is not engaged in rendering medical advice, legal advice, or professional services. If you feel that you have a medical problem, you should seek the advice of your physician or health care practitioner. For additional information, please see Our full disclosure, terms of use, and privacy policy.
