How to Accept That the Good Guy's Gone Bad

Accepting that someone you once thought of as a "good guy" has turned out to be someone different can be a difficult and painful experience. Here are some steps you can take to help you come to terms with this:

1. Acknowledge your feelings: Allow yourself to feel whatever emotions come up - whether it's sadness, anger, disappointment, or something else. It's important to recognize and accept your feelings, rather than trying to suppress them.

2. Reflect on what has changed: Think about what specific actions or behaviors have caused you to view this person differently. It can be helpful to write down your thoughts and feelings, as this can help you gain clarity and perspective.

3. Consider the context: Try to understand the context in which this person's behavior has changed. Have there been any significant life events or changes that may have contributed to this shift in behavior? While this doesn't excuse any negative behavior, it can help you make sense of it.

4. Accept the reality: Accepting that someone has changed can be difficult, but it's important to face the reality of the situation. Accepting the reality can help you move forward and avoid dwelling on what could have been.

5. Focus on yourself: While it's natural to want to try to understand and help the person who has changed, it's important to prioritize your own well-being. Focus on taking care of yourself and doing what's best for you.

6. Seek support: Talk to someone you trust, whether it's a friend, family member, or therapist. Having someone to talk to can help you process your emotions and gain perspective on the situation.

Remember, accepting that someone you once thought of as a "good guy" has gone bad can be a challenging experience, but it's important to take care of yourself and prioritize your own well-being.