**Breaking Up with Energy Vampires: The Self-Love Move No One Talks About**

Let’s talk about the relationship that needs your attention the most: the one you have with yourself.

Not the bubble baths and scented candles kind (though those are great too), but the real, deep, transformative kind—the kind that requires making hard choices. The kind that asks you to walk away from people and patterns that drain you.

Toxic friendships. Codependency. One-sided relationships. If something is taking more than it gives, it’s time to cut the cord.

We’ve all been there, giving our time and energy to situations that leave us feeling empty, misunderstood, or overwhelmed. But self-love isn’t just about what you add to your life—it’s about what you remove.

Why Breaking Up with Energy Vampires is the Ultimate Act of Self-Care

It’s not easy to walk away from relationships, especially ones that have been in our lives for a long time. We hold on because we don’t want to be seen as “selfish,” or we convince ourselves that if we just give a little more, things will change. But here’s a truth you need to hear: when you allow toxic people or draining dynamics to stick around, you're choosing them over your own peace.

True self-care isn’t about pampering yourself with indulgent experiences—it’s about making tough choices to protect your energy. It’s about releasing the things that weigh you down and choosing boundaries that nourish your soul.

Think of it like decluttering your emotional space. Just as you wouldn’t keep items in your home that no longer serve a purpose, why would you keep relationships in your life that don’t align with who you’re becoming?

How to Recognize the Energy Vampires in Your Life

Energy vampires aren’t always easy to spot. They might not come with capes or fangs, but their impact on you is just as draining. Here are some signs that you might be dealing with one:

One-sided conversations: You pour your heart out, and they just take, take, take. They leave you feeling emotionally spent.
Constant drama: They seem to thrive on chaos and expect you to be their emotional support through every crisis.

Lack of reciprocity: You’re always there for them, but when you need help, they’re nowhere to be found.
Manipulation or guilt-tripping: They make you feel bad for taking time for yourself or setting boundaries.
Exhaustion: You leave interactions with them feeling drained, anxious, or worse than before.

If any of this feels familiar, it might be time for a serious talk with yourself—and them.

The Power of Setting Boundaries

One of the most empowering acts of self-love you can practice is setting clear boundaries. And while it’s never easy, it’s always necessary for protecting your mental and emotional health. Here’s the thing: boundaries aren’t walls that separate you from others; they’re guidelines for how you expect to be treated.

Setting boundaries means:

Saying no without guilt
Prioritizing your well-being over others’ demands
Cutting ties with people who no longer contribute to your growth
Trusting that your peace is worth the sacrifice of unhealthy relationships

In the spirit of the season of love, give yourself the gift of self-respect by cutting out the people, situations, and habits that no longer serve you.

Journal Prompts to Help You Reclaim Your Energy

Ready to start this detox from energy vampires? Here are a few journal prompts to guide you through the process of letting go and reclaiming your power:

Who in my life leaves me feeling drained or emotionally exhausted? What can I do to protect my energy from them?
What boundaries do I need to set with myself and others to ensure I’m honoring my own needs?
What patterns have I been repeating that no longer align with who I want to be? How can I break these patterns?
What does real self-love look like for me right now? How can I make space for that love?
What would my life look like if I let go of everything and everyone that no longer supports my growth?

Let’s Make This SEASON the Start of Your True Self-Love Journey

It’s time to make it all about you. The most radical form of love is the one you give yourself when you stop tolerating what doesn’t serve your highest good. Whether it’s setting boundaries, saying no to the energy drainers, or simply choosing to prioritize yourself, now is the time to take action.

Ready to start the process? Take the first step by reflecting on these journal prompts, and feel free to share your progress with me on IG @nadiamurdock, using #HeyNadia.

I’d love to hear how you’re setting boundaries and reclaiming your energy. Let me know in the comments, or book a session with me to dig deeper into your self-care and wellness practice.

This is the "True Love" Move No One Talks About 🤫