It is Okay to Say, “No!”
Saturday, October 16, 2010 at 7:00 am | |
It is not okay to say, “Yes,” when your heart tells you to say otherwise. Sure it’s easier to say yes, but at what price to your peace of mind? Always saying yes isn’t healthy.
It is not possible to fulfill every request made of you. Compulsively saying yes is potentially self-destructive; it is behavior that signals co-dependency.
To let go of feeling guilty when you say, “No,” is a new way of being that takes practice. Don’t agree to a request you would rather decline because of feelings of guilt or obligation. Doing so will likely lead to additional stress and resentment.
Practive saying “no” to unimportant things. Say ‘no’ to meeting the demands and needs of everyone except yourself. S-M-I-L-E and just say, “No!”
Sometimes it’s tough to determine which activities deserve your time and attention. However, it is important to stand up for you. Cease being a conspirator in your own abuse. Be assertive when you say, “No,” not aggressive.
The word “no” has power. Don’t be afraid to use it. Be careful about using wimpy substitute phrases, such as “I’m not sure” or “Not now” or “I don’t think I can” or “I’ll think about it.” These answers are often interpreted to mean that you might say yes later.
Saying no isn’t necessarily selfish. When you say no to a new commitment, you’re honoring your current commitments and obligations and ensuring that you’ll be able to devote quality time to them. Saying no won’t be easy especially if you’re used to saying yes all the time. But learning to say no is an important part of simplifying your life and managing your stress.
Your relationship with someone else does not depend upon giving up yourself.
You give “of” yourself to the other.
You never give “up” yourself to the other.
Healthy, mature love does not make us less than we are individually.
What part of ‘NO’ don’t You understand?
October 16, 2010 by
