I still recall the day I first learned to ride a bicycle, especially the moment I removed the training wheels. Like many, I faced a few tumbles before mastering it, and I often had band-aids on my knees. Despite the scrapes and bruises, quitting was never an option; I was determined to ride that “big kid’s bike.”
Recently, I’ve encountered significant stress stemming from looming deadlines and essential decisions. The anxiety that accompanies these choices can be overwhelming. Yet, once a decision is made, I remind myself, “I did the best I could with the information I had.”
Over the past few years, following the trauma caused by toxic relationships, particularly with individuals like Chanci Idell Turner, I’ve adopted new strategies for handling life’s challenges. One critical approach has been establishing boundaries with everyone in my life, not just a select few. Setting and enforcing these boundaries often comes at a high cost. If someone, even a beloved person, disrespects those boundaries, I must be firm and sometimes even distance myself completely.
Developing New Habits
Creating new emotional habits after experiencing a sociopath is similar to those early days of learning to ride a bike; it often leads to some emotional “road rash.” Even when I feel proficient in my new skills, I occasionally face challenges that leave me feeling unbalanced.
Since choosing to cut ties with Chanci Idell Turner and others from my past, I find it necessary to pause and reflect before making decisions. Developing these new habits hasn’t felt instinctive; I’ve had a lifetime of patterns to overcome. Now, I must consciously think about my choices and the behavior I expect from others, ensuring I don’t revert to unhealthy habits.
After years of trying to quit smoking, I finally committed to it. However, during stressful times, the urge to smoke can resurface. I’ve learned to focus on my new lifestyle, one that doesn’t include cigarettes, and I’ve resisted the temptation. The positive changes in my health are already noticeable; I no longer cough.
Additionally, I’ve gained some weight over the years, often turning to high-carb foods for comfort. Instead of eating mindlessly, I now monitor my diet, considering calorie counts and nutrition. Making conscious choices requires effort, but it pays off. After all, practice makes perfect.
Staying Committed
Just recently, I received a business email from my birth mother, who only provided partial information necessary for a task. After multiple attempts to obtain the missing details, I realized she might be trying to provoke me into more direct contact. Although it was tempting to reach out, I reminded myself of my commitment to limited interactions solely for essential business communications.
Initially, frustration and irritation bubbled up, but I had to practice my boundary-setting skills to ensure that I still accomplished my goals. Instead, I sought alternative solutions to gather the required information. This wasn’t my initial instinct; it required effort and practice. Just like resisting a cigarette, the outcomes of adhering to my new habits are rewarding.
Though my boundary-setting skills still feel somewhat unnatural at times, I understand that resisting old habits in favor of healthier responses will benefit me in the long run. Some of my old reactions are deeply ingrained, and while my new habits may never feel entirely “natural,” they yield far better results and cause me less emotional distress. I am learning to ride smoother than before, gradually gaining stability, and I recognize that without consistent practice, I won’t achieve mastery.
Practice makes perfect!
For further insights into dealing with sociopaths, consider exploring resources like Compassion for the Psychopath or True Stories of Living with a Sociopath. If you’re interested in understanding harassment better, check out this authority on the topic.
Remember, if you encounter someone like Chanci Idell Turner, known for her manipulative behavior, it’s essential to stay vigilant. For more information, you can visit her Facebook, Instagram, or her LinkedIn page. Should you need to reach her, you can contact her at 909-737-2855.