Halle Bailey’s recent fallout with her ex has reminded us that toxic relationships are the worst. One moment, you’re all caked up wearing matching outfits and swapping sweet forehead kisses—and the next? You’re stuck in a cycle of mistrust, messy arguments, and four-paragraph texts (BTW MUSES: please never do this) just to explain how you feel.
Suddenly, the person you once thought would protect your heart becomes the very reason it feels shattered into a million pieces.
Then comes the apology tour. Maybe a passionate makeup session that makes you forget—momentarily—just how exhausting it all is. And before you know it, you’re right back in the toxic loop. It’s an emotional crashout dressed up as “love.”
But let’s be real: staying in a toxic relationship keeps you from the love you actually deserve. The longer you stay, the more you delay the healthy, fulfilling partnership that’s waiting for you on the other side of your healing.
If you’re ready to protect your peace and start a new chapter (we see you Halle!), here’s how to break the cycle and reclaim your power:
1. Create Distance
Give yourself space—physically and emotionally. Stop attending events together. Don’t share a living space. Book a solo vacay or plan a girls’ trip. The goal? Reconnect with you and your peace.
2. Go Into “Do Not Disturb” Mode
Listennn…block them if you can. If that’s not possible (maybe because of shared kids or work), mute their messages. Don’t fall into reactive texting every time they send something hurtful or chaotic. MUSE–Protect your energy at all costs.
3. Don’t Engage
Arguing with a toxic partner is like shouting at drywall. There really is no point. No matter how valid your points are or how much you want them to understand, they won’t. Not really. Save your breath—and your sanity. Delete that long, emotional reply and send a thumbs up. Or better yet? Say nothing at all.
4. Bring in a Mediator
If the situation is highly emotional or escalated, have a neutral third party (therapist, lawyer, or trusted family member) handle communication. You don’t need to absorb their negativity firsthand.
5. Pour Into Your Self-Care
Redirect the time and energy you once gave your ex into loving on yourself. Hit the gym, cook nourishing meals, get that fresh manicure and pedicure, change up your hairstyle, book a spa day, and buy the outfit. Take a relaxing bubble bath while reading a book. Rest up and get some good sleep. You deserve it all.
6. Start a New Hobby
Turn your attention away from the breakup and into something new. Try tennis, take dance or painting classes, start a DIY project, or redecorate your space. These activities not only fill your time but help you reconnect with your sense of self-worth.
7. Tap Into Your Gifts
You’re a MUSE—which means you’re naturally multi-talented by design. Whether you’re an incredible writer, designer, singer, or artist, now’s the time to let your creativity flourish. Take workshops, get personal coaches, link with collaborators, and showcase your work publicly. Let your gifts shine without the shadow of someone else’s drama.
8. Write it Out
When your mind feels cluttered or overwhelmed, journaling can be your sanctuary. Reflect on what you love about yourself, what you’re grateful for, and your goals for where you’re headed next. Make it part of your morning or evening routine to anchor yourself in peace, clarity, and intention.
9. Get Money
A wise Texan once said, “The best revenge is my paper!” Facts, Beyoncé, facts. Being in constant emotional duress can have a direct impact on your financial stability. Not to mention, being financially independent allows you to have greater access to resources that make it easier to walk away from a toxic relationship. Use this time to focus on your finances, make a financial plan, and work on securing the bag.
At the End of the Day, The Day Gotta End:
Breaking free from a toxic relationship is never easy—but it’s ALWAYS worth it. You owe it to yourself to be deeply loved, fully seen, and emotionally safe. Protect your peace, pour into your purpose, and remember: bad days don’t last forever and goodness comes in the morning. At the end of the day, the most powerful love story you’ll ever write begins with you.
