We've all been there... months, or even years, into a relationship that we know damn well is no good for us, but we stay, and it isn't until we leave and finally take a deep breath of fresh air that we think "HOLY HELL, what was I thinking". But the first step is recognizing the problem. Today, Shantel shares all about her experiences that lead her to leaving a toxic relationship, living a year filled with growth and self-exploration, before finding and dating her now fiancé.

Kick in the pants? Oh, you know it's coming.