This was an article I read from David Neagle of the Neagle Code recently, and I thought it was pretty great, so I had to share! This is something we all experience at some time or another. 

Hi David!

I have a lifelong friend (someone whom I’ve known and been close to for nearly 30 years), who has a very toxic side. At first I didn’t notice it, but as I’m growing, I’m seeing it as clear as day. I know it’s rubbing off on me, and yet, I don’t want to walk away from this relationship.

Is there something I can do to keep her in my life and still protect myself from the toxicity?

David’s Answer:

Hi, Margaret, and thanks for the great question.

Last month I answered this same question during one of my Mindset for Maximum Prosperity Intensives, so let me ask you the same question I asked one of my attendees.

How much toxicity would you allow in your home? Would you allow just a little bit of lead paint?
Just a little bit of arsenic? I think not. So why would you allow it into your personal relationships?

The answer: YOU ARE ATTACHED.

Ask yourself: What are you getting from the relationship? And then see what’s actually going on here.
My advice would be to set her free.

Otherwise, you’ll find yourself either trying to change her (which is not your right or responsibility), or you will continue to take on her toxic energy and/or beliefs.

It’s possible that this relationship was meant to be for a season rather than a lifetime.