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Maybe You Are Not ‘Too Much’ — Maybe They Are Just Not Enough

Has someone ever made you feel like you are “too much?” Too emotional. Too sensitive. Too needy. Too intense. Too… everything. If you have carried the weight of that accusation — spoken or implied — let me give you something to consider: What if the problem is not that you are too much… but that they are not enough? A dear friend of mine said this to me when I mentioned how someone always…

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Rude Comments Introverts Are Tired Of Hearing

As a lifelong introvert who has become more introverted over the years, I have encountered more than my fair share of unsolicited negative opinions regarding my introversion like many others have. People often feel the need to comment on introverts’ behavior without truly understanding it. Today we will talk about some common remarks directed at introverts & sheds light on why these comments are…

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Wonderful Book Recommendation!

If you aren’t currently following Heartland Echoes’ blog, I highly recommend it! She is a very talented writer, & open about her experiences of narcissistic abuse. This talented blogger is also the author of her new book, “The Nightmare on Pinion Drive: A Poetic Journey Through Trauma and Triumph“ It is inspiring, down to earth & a wonderful read which is why I highly recommend it. I believe…

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High Conflict People

High conflict people exhibit persistent patterns of behavior that create difficulties in their interactions with others. Recognizing the signs of high conflict individuals is essential for effective communication & conflict resolution. One of the key signs of a high conflict individual is their propensity to pick fights over trivial matters. They escalate situations quickly & have explosive…

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The Quiet “No”: Understanding Passive Defiance

Most of us are familiar with passive aggressive behavior — the sarcasm, the silent treatment, the subtle digs that leave you second guessing yourself. But there is another, quieter form of resistance that often goes unnoticed — even by the person doing it. It is called passive defiance. If you ever lived with control, manipulation, or emotional suppression, you may know it better than you…

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Unmasking The “Good Person” Abuser

Abuse can take many forms, & one of the most deceptive & damaging is perpetrated by those who present themselves as the “good person.” These people may have a reputation for being helpful, caring, & trustworthy to the outside world, but their behavior behind closed doors tells a different story. They present an image of goodness & caring while showing concern for others, yet their treatment of…

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Signs Of Toxic Parents

Toxic parenting has detrimental effects on one’s mental & emotional well being.  Today we will discuss various signs of toxic parents. Narcissistic Personality Disorder is sadly common today, & what makes it sadder yet is the type of parents they are.  Narcissistic parents exhibit characteristics of taking things too personally, being easily offended, being very manipulative & having a constant…

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Little Habits That Can Help You Embrace A Simpler, More Enjoyable Life

The term minimalism often evokes images of extreme simplicity – a person with only a few sets of clothes, one set of dishes, & a singular pot for cooking.  While this minimalist lifestyle may work for some, it absolutely does not work for me.  However, certain aspects of minimalism, such as decluttering & prioritizing time for what truly matters, resonate with me & many others who also are…

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Signs Of Quiet Quitting In Marriage

Quiet quitting is a subtle but significant occurrence that can occur in marriage when one or both partners transition from actively engaging in the connection to merely existing within it.  It reflects a state of emotional disengagement that may lead to long term consequences if left unaddressed.  Recognizing the signs of quiet quitting is essential for identifying underlying issues & addressing…

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How Narcissists Condition Victims To Lose Themselves

Being in a relationship with a narcissist is like being trapped in a shrinking room. Whether that narcissist is a parent, relative, friend, or spouse, the experience is painfully similar. Over time, you begin to shrink yourself, not because you want to, but because you are conditioned to believe it is necessary for pleasing the narcissist. Narcissists are masters at making everything about…

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How Narcissists Use Stress To Control Victims

If you feel constantly stressed, anxious, & unwell in a relationship with a narcissist, I promise you, you are not alone.  Narcissists often use stress as a tool to control their victims.  By creating stressful situations, they weaken their victims physically & emotionally, which makes them easier to manipulate.  Today’s blog post will delve into how narcissists use stress to control their…

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When People Falsely Accuse You

Have you ever been falsely accused of something you didn’t do?  It can be a very frustrating & hurtful experience.  In the book of Revelation 12:10, it mentions Satan’s role as the accuser of the brethren, & says that he accuses us day & night to God.  Just like Satan, people who falsely accuse you are trying to bring trouble into your life by spreading misinformation & lies about you.  But why…

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How Narcissists Avoid Healthy Conversations

Healthy communication is vital in meaningful relationships, but narcissists often avoid such exchanges. Their strategies for dodging honest dialogue leave their victims feeling confused, unheard, & invalidated. Narcissists use a variety of strategies to derail healthy conversations, maintaining control & avoiding accountability. Today we will discuss these behaviors & their impact. Narcissists…

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Activities That Bring Joy To Highly Sensitive People

Highly sensitive people, also known as HSPs have unique needs when it comes to maintaining their mental health & overall well being.  In a world that can often feel overwhelming & over stimulating, it is important for HSPs to find joy in the simple things that bring them peace & comfort.  Following are some things that can bring highly sensitive people joy. As a Christian & a highly sensitive…

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Keeping The Memory Of A Beloved Pet Alive

Losing a beloved pet is one of the deepest heartbreaks a person can experience. Our pets are not just animals; they are family, companions, & sources of unconditional love. The pain of their absence can feel overwhelming, but even though they are no longer physically with us, their presence can remain in our hearts & memories. When my beautiful cat, Molly, passed away on July 24, 2024, my world…

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Being An Enabler Versus Being Empathic

It is common for people to want to help others who are struggling or facing challenges.  However, there is a significant difference between being an enabler & being empathic, & it’s very important to know the differences between them.  Many people may mistakenly believe that enablers are good hearted people just doing their best to assist those in need.  In reality, enablers enable bad behavior &…

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How To Recognize & Defend Yourself Against Manipulative Behavior

Gaslighting is a form of psychological manipulation & abuse in which a person seeks to sow seeds of doubt in a targeted person or group, making them question their own memory, perception, or even sanity.  Gaslighting tactics are often subtle & can be difficult to detect, but understanding the techniques used can help you recognize & defend against them. One common gaslighting tactic is…