Leaving a toxic relationship is a brave step towards self-love and happiness, and Anti-Valentine’s Week can serve as a symbolic opportunity to ‘kick out’ the negativity associated with your toxic relationship. So, even after ending the relationship with your girlfriend or boyfriend, your beau is not ready to let you go? Use Anti-Valentine’s Week to tell them, “It’s time to move on.” So, here are some tips on Kick Day to get rid of your toxic ex:

1. Be clear when breaking upMake it crystal clear that the relationship is over and there are no chances of a patch-up. There’s no need to explain or give your reasoning, what’s important is that you tell them it’s over. Don’t send mixed signals and keep this conversation short.
2. Define boundariesIf you stay in touch with them even after your breakup, they will believe that there’s still a chance to get you back. Responding to their phone calls or messages or allowing them to hang out with you will make them feel that you still want this relationship to work. So, maintaining healthy boundaries by remaining firm is crucial.
3. Take screenshots of abusive textsIf your obsessive ex is constantly messaging you online, keeping an eye on every status update, sending you threatening emails or making fake profiles to try to communicate with you after you blocked them, start taking screenshots. It is an easy way to prove if any situation escalates or gets worse, as you’ll have every incident documented with you.
4. Talk about itIt can be hard to speak up when you’re going through a hostile breakup, but it’s really important to talk if you’re being harassed or stalked afterwards. Don’t bad-mouth your ex, but be honest about the things that are bothering you with your friends and family. They can give you advice on how to deal with the situation.
5. Be mentally strongIf your ex is taking the breakup badly, you might feel guilty. Believe in yourself and trust your judgement. He/she might say hurtful and disrespectful things to you or try to injure them to get you to talk to them again. Share things with a trusted friend or mental health professional who can support and help you during this difficult time. Also, try doing activities or your favourite hobbies that will help you feel calm and balanced.
6. Let them know when they cross the lineBe clear and direct if your ex does something that you find abusive, and tell them to stop. If they still don’t leave you alone, let them know that you will take further action.