In this lesson, we will explore the concept of toxic cycles, focusing on how people pleasing, low self-worth, and recurring toxic relationships are interconnected. We will examine how these cycles form, their impact on individuals.

People Pleasing:

This is a behavior where individuals prioritize the needs and desires of others over their own, often at the expense of their well-being. People pleasers often seek validation and approval from others, have difficulty saying no, and may feel guilty when asserting their own needs. This toxic cycle causes us to constantly seek external validation which can lead to a diminished sense of self-worth and identity. It can also create a pattern of unhealthy relationships where the individual is taken advantage of or feels unfulfilled.

Low Self-Worth, (manifested as self-loathing and self-sabotage):

Low self-worth refers to a lack of belief in one's own value, abilities, and worthiness. It can stem from childhood experiences, societal pressures, abuse at any age, and negative self-talk. Individuals with low self-worth may engage in self-sabotaging behaviors, settle for less than they deserve in relationships, and have difficulty setting boundaries. This is also why many people become people-pleasers.

Recurring Toxic Relationships:

Recurring toxic relationships are patterns where individuals repeatedly find themselves in relationships that are emotionally or psychologically harmful. These relationships may involve manipulation, control, emotional abuse, or a lack of mutual respect and support. Individuals with low self-worth and a tendency to people please may be more likely to attract or stay in toxic relationships, perpetuating a harmful cycle.

Emotional Eating:

The toxic cycle of emotional eating is a pattern where individuals use food to cope with their emotions, leading to negative consequences for their physical and emotional health. This cycle typically involves several stages:

1. Trigger: Emotional eating often begins with a trigger, such as stress, sadness, boredom, or loneliness. These emotions can lead to feelings of discomfort or distress that individuals seek to alleviate.
2. Eating to cope: In response to the trigger, individuals turn to food for comfort or distraction. They may consume large amounts of food, often high in sugar, fat, or carbohydrates, which can temporarily improve mood due to the release of feel-good hormones like serotonin.
3. Temporary relief: Emotional eating can provide a temporary sense of relief or pleasure, as the act of eating can distract from or numb negative emotions. However, this relief is often short-lived and followed by feelings of guilt, shame, or regret.
4. Negative emotions return: Once the temporary relief wears off, individuals are often left with the original emotions that triggered the behavior, as well as additional negative emotions related to overeating.
5. Repeat cycle: The cycle of emotional eating can become habitual, with individuals repeatedly turning to food to cope with their emotions. Over time, this behavior can lead to weight gain, poor self-esteem, and a sense of loss of control over eating habits.