Relationships and Why You Can't Afford to Go Back to Those Who Once Tried to Take Food Off Your Table and Call Them Friends
In life, relationships form the bedrock of our social existence. Friends, in particular, play an integral role in shaping who we are, offering support, guidance, and companionship during both joyous and difficult moments. However, not all friendships are built on a foundation of mutual respect and care. Some relationships can become toxic, manipulative, or even harmful. When someone actively tries to sabotage your well-being or success — metaphorically "taking food off your table" — it’s crucial to recognize the red flags and avoid re-entering such relationships.
The Significance of “Taking Food Off Your Table”
The phrase “taking food off your table” symbolizes a deeper betrayal. It represents actions that undermine your livelihood, happiness, or stability. This could manifest in many ways: friends who spread rumors about you, betray your trust, hinder your personal or professional growth, or manipulate situations to their advantage at your expense. These actions show a lack of respect and care, proving that they are not looking out for your best interests.
Such individuals might masquerade as friends, but their intentions are not genuine. It’s essential to understand that when someone deliberately tries to diminish your life, it’s more than just a simple disagreement — it’s an active attempt to destabilize your foundation.
The Cost of Returning to Toxic Relationships
Going back to friends who have betrayed or undermined you can be emotionally and mentally costly. Here’s why you can’t afford to return to these relationships:
1. Erosion of Self-Worth
When you return to people who have previously tried to harm you, you signal to yourself that their actions were acceptable. This erodes your self-esteem and self-worth, reinforcing the idea that you don’t deserve better treatment. Over time, this can lead to feelings of inadequacy, doubt, and emotional insecurity.
2. Repeat of Past Behaviors
If someone has betrayed you once, there’s a high likelihood they will do it again. People who engage in manipulative or harmful behaviors often repeat them unless they’ve made a conscious effort to change — which is rare without serious self-reflection. Returning to such a person leaves you vulnerable to future betrayals, as they may continue to exploit your forgiveness.
3. Emotional Exhaustion
Toxic friendships drain you emotionally. They often come with cycles of hurt, reconciliation, and more hurt, creating a whirlwind of emotional ups and downs. This kind of emotional turmoil can exhaust you, leaving you feeling mentally and physically drained. Being around such negativity can also cloud your ability to maintain healthy relationships with others.
4. Hindrance to Personal Growth
Friendships should uplift and inspire personal growth. Toxic relationships, however, often stifle that growth. When you are constantly on the defense, trying to protect yourself from betrayal or manipulation, your energy is wasted on damage control rather than progress. Surrounding yourself with people who devalue you can delay your journey toward achieving your goals and living your best life.
5. Trust Issues
Trust is the foundation of any meaningful relationship. If someone has previously tried to “take food off your table,” they have violated your trust. Continuing a relationship with such individuals makes it difficult to rebuild trust — not only in them but in others as well. This can have a ripple effect, leading you to become overly guarded in all your relationships, even the healthy ones.
The Importance of Healthy Relationships
A healthy friendship is built on trust, mutual respect, and a desire for each other's well-being. Such friends encourage you, celebrate your successes, and support you during tough times. They never feel the need to take from you or diminish your achievements to elevate themselves. Surrounding yourself with people who genuinely care about your success helps you grow, boosts your confidence, and enriches your emotional well-being.
Choosing to step away from toxic relationships allows you to make room for these healthier connections. It helps you set clear boundaries and cultivate friendships that nourish, rather than deplete, your spirit. Healthy friendships act as pillars of strength, allowing you to thrive both personally and professionally.
How to Move Forward
Letting go of toxic relationships is easier said than done, especially if there is a long history or deep emotional connection. However, for your well-being, it’s necessary to set boundaries and move forward. Here are some steps to help:
1. Acknowledge the Harm
Recognize the negative impact the person had on your life. Acknowledging this helps you validate your feelings and gives you the clarity to move forward.
2. Set Clear Boundaries
Make a conscious decision to keep such individuals at a distance. Boundaries are essential for protecting your emotional and mental well-being. Communicate those boundaries if necessary, but understand that you don’t owe them an explanation.
3. Surround Yourself with Positivity
Seek out relationships that bring positivity and growth into your life. Align yourself with people who inspire, support, and challenge you in healthy ways.
4. Focus on Personal Growth
Use the energy you would have invested in toxic relationships to focus on your personal growth and well-being. Whether it’s pursuing your passions, advancing your career, or improving your mental health, this time will be far better spent on nurturing yourself.
Conclusion: You Deserve Better
In life, you can’t afford to go back to those who once tried to take food off your table and call them friends. These relationships do more harm than good, eroding your self-worth, trust, and emotional well-being. Instead, invest in relationships that nourish your soul and propel you toward your goals. When you understand your value and set clear boundaries, you create space for healthier, more fulfilling friendships. Remember, a true friend would never try to take away from you — they would only seek to uplift and support you.
Samson Anuoluwapo Balogun
C2024
Watchtower MEDIA blog
Samson Balogun - Mc Captain
Samson Anuoluwapo Balogun