In this episode, we're talking about something that so many women experience—but don't always have the words for: what it feels like to slowly (or sometimes quickly) lose your sense of self in a narcissistic or toxic relationship. From gaslighting and love bombing to isolation, control, and the silent treatment, these patterns aren't random—they're strategic. And over time, they can disconnect you from your intuition, your voice, and your identity.

We'll break down how these dynamics impact not just your emotions, but your brain and nervous system—keeping you stuck in survival mode, where clarity, confidence, and self-trust become harder and harder to access. If you've ever found yourself second-guessing everything, walking on eggshells, or wondering, "Who even am I right now?"—this episode will help you understand why.

Here's the shift: you didn't lose yourself because something is wrong with you—you adapted to survive. And now, you get to choose something different. We'll talk about what healthy relationships actually look like, how to recognize green flags, and how to begin reconnecting with who you are—so you can choose relationships that don't require you to disappear.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Green Flags:

• Mutual respect
• Trust
• Honesty
• Compromise
• Individuality
• Good communication
• Anger control
• Fighting fair
• Problem solving
• Understanding
• Self-confidence
• Being a role model
• Healthy sexual relationship
• Support
• Fairness and equality
• Safety
• Conflict resolution

BEST MOMENTS

There is nothing stronger than a broken woman who has rebuilt herself. — Hannah Gadsby

Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we'll ever do. — Brené Brown

You yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection. — Sharon Salzberg

The most common way people give up their power is by thinking they don't have any. — Alice Walker

Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do. — Carol Dweck

VALUABLE RESOURCES

If you're struggling in a relationship and wondering if it might be controlling, you're not alone. Download my free guide at locatecoaching.com/freegift to help you find clarity and confidence.

EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT

Check out other episodes of Life After: From Surviving to Thriving:

https://sites.libsyn.com/460833/site

ABOUT THE HOST

Jill McKnight is a mindset coach and speaker as well as an Erickson Professional Certified Coach. She specializes in supporting those who are rebuilding their lives and finding their most aligned path forward.

Jill knows that the tips and tricks in each episode work – because she's used them to change her life and her clients have used them to change their lives! Jill has the education and life experience to help you rebuild your life, whatever the circumstances… and move from surviving to thriving!

Through her talks, events, programs, and podcast "Life After: From Surviving to Thriving", Jill provides her clients with a unique mix of thoughtful guidance and sincere care. She lives in a small town in Washington with her son and is committed to co-create a world with more hope, connection, and healing for us all.

CONNECT & CONTACT

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@locatecoaching

IG: https://www.instagram.com/locatecoaching/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwEImRGJXX4hrdS_NM3wWXg

Email: [email protected]