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Posts by Chioma K Iheanacho

Chioma K Iheanacho writes about reclaiming yourself after loss of identity, trust, or voice. A former corporate executive turned Grace Navigator, she creates programs for high-achievers navigating perfectionism and burnout. She writes from the inside out, offering what she wished she’d had when she was searching for answers. She’s the author of Forgiving You: 23 Keys to Unlock Your Freedom and Heal Your Soul. Visit forgiveness.plus.

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The Subtle Ways You Lose Yourself in a Toxic Relationship

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“Emotional abuse is any pattern of behavior that undermines a person’s sense of self-worth and reality.” ~Beverly Engel

At first, the changes were small.

I stopped wearing that outfit everyone liked because they said it didn’t look good on me. I let certain friendships fade because it made him uncomfortable. I laughed less at things he didn’t find funny.

I face-checked myself to make sure my expression was pleasing to him. I shrank just slightly, in ways no one else would notice.

Then it got bigger.

I stopped trusting my own judgment because he told me I was too sensitive. …