The Real Toxic in Your Life... and How to Actually \"Detox\"
Toxic
We love that word, don’t we? A toxic colleague. A toxic relationship. Toxins in our water. A toxic ex who still texts “u up?” at 1am.
But here’s the truth: when we talk about “toxic people” or “toxic environments,” it’s not that they’re literally poisoning us.
Nobody’s going to E.D. because they sat next to Phil from Accounts.
Toxicity is when something or someone consistently drains your energy, pulls you away from your values, or keeps you stuck in habits that don’t serve you. It can be Phil, your neighbour, or even your own thoughts and habits.
And while we’re here let’s not forget that alcohol itself is toxic.
In the literal sense here though.
There’s no part of the human body it doesn’t affect when consumed, even in small amounts. From your brain chemistry to your liver, to your sleep. Even “just one glass” starts a ripple.
Of course most of us are quicker to label a co-worker toxic than we are to call out the wine in our own glass.
What “toxic” really means (no, it’s not just a vibe)
Research on toxic relationships and environments shows that they often create chronic stress — linked to anxiety, fatigue, even weakened immunity. What’s happening is not magic; it’s misalignment. Something (or someone) is clashing with your values, your goals, or the person you’re trying to become.
Signs of toxicity are personal and can include:
Feeling drained instead of energised after being with someone.
People who make you doubt yourself, who pressure you into behaviours you don’t like.
Environments that nudge you into behaviours you’re trying to quit (hello, Friday night pub culture).
Conversations that always circle back to drama, gossip, or complaints, and leave you carrying someone else’s emotional baggage.
Friends who only call when there’s alcohol involved, never for a sober activity like coffee or a walk.
That constant “fear of missing out” when you say no to a drink — FOMO thinking is self-sabotage and unnecessary. Enjoy the present, forget what could be.
People or places that support the drinking culture. Where people are uncomfortable when you don’t.
Routines that derail your goals (like always opening a bottle after work because “that’s just what I do”).
Something that is toxic to you may not be toxic to others.
Notice: toxicity isn’t just “out there.” Our own thoughts can be toxic, too. That inner voice whispering “You’ll never last without a drink” is also toxic: it’s sabotage disguised as logic.
A quick self-inventory
Time to reflect a bit. Jot down:
People: Who leaves you feeling flat, small, or pressured to drink?
Places: Which environments make alcohol feel unavoidable?
Patterns: What thoughts or habits sabotage your progress?
Now, instead of plotting a “detox,” ask: what good can I bring in to counterbalance this?
Forget detox. Add more of the good.
You don’t need a deep cleanse. You don’t need to “start fresh.” You just need to thin out the toxic by adding more of the good.
More people who lift you up.
More environments where alcohol isn’t the main event.
More thoughts that sound like your best friend, not your harshest critic.
Many health experts agree that it’s the same with your body:
You don’t detox your liver with juice cleanses. You give it rest, water, sleep, and nourishing food. You add the good.
What you can do now
Alcohol is the ultimate toxin, but it’s not the only one.
The real power move is to stop obsessing over what to strip away and start focusing on what to bring in. You can refresh your ecosystem by filling your life with so much good, the toxic doesn’t stand a chance.
Start small. Start now. What good will you add today?
Like it, share it! 👉🏼
About the Author
Hi! I'm Sophie and I am so glad you're here! I help women and men make small, incremental changes that create a positive ripple effect on their entire life.
You have the power to turn your life around, starting today.
I am here to help you succeed.
Other Recent Articles
✨ Because thriving people create thriving workplaces ✨
Every edition delivers:
• Quick mindset shifts + self-care practices you can use today.
• Insights and tools leaders and HR managers can bring into the workplace.
• A ripple effect: healthier, happier professionals → stronger teams → better results.
📩 Sign up to my inspiring and helpful newsletter.
I work with integrity and respect your privacy. Your details are safe with me. You can unsubscribe to this mailing list anytime... but you won't want to!
I respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which I coach, collaborate and grow, the Gimuy Walubara Yidinji and Yirrganydji Peoples. I acknowledge and pay respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples as the world’s oldest living culture and embrace their continued connection to land, waters and community. I pay my deepest respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past and present.
I also recognise, value and celebrate diversity and act in the spirit of inclusion.
