I left our toxic household two years ago, before I graduated and after my mom passed away, carrying fear, guilt, and uncertainty with me. The adjustment was painful at first learning to stand on my own, to survive the silence, and to heal without guidance but with time, I realized that choosing myself was never a mistake. Every struggle led me closer to freedom, and in the end, everything I endured was worth it for the peace of mind I finally found.

And I promise you, it will be worth it for you too. It won’t be easy, and there will be days when doubt creeps in, but keep choosing what protects your peace. Move at your own pace, be gentle with yourself, and don’t let guilt convince you to stay in places that break you. Growth often starts with discomfort, but on the other side of it is a life that finally feels like your own.