Are you someone who has a hard time saying no? Do you feel like you constantly put others before yourself?
Now, being generous, caring and kind are all fantastic qualities to have.
However, saying yes to everyone around you can have you feeling emotionally and physically exhausted.
When you are constantly running around and doing things for everyone else, you can often forget to leave a little kindness for yourself.
Only Take On What You Can Handle
The challenge with putting other people’s wants and needs ahead of your own is that you’re often the last on your list.
If your friend asks you to edit their essay but you’re busy working away on your own – take time to reflect before responding.
Will helping your friend prevent you from finishing your essay on time?
If so, you may have to politely decline or offer to help once you’ve finished your own work.
It’s okay to take a step back and be honest about what you realistically can and can’t handle.
Practicing the art of saying “no” can get you more comfortable with saying it more often.
Your Feelings Are Valid
Being told you are “wrong” is not a great feeling.
Just because someone doesn’t see eye-eye with you doesn’t mean you are wrong. It just means you have a difference of opinion. Your feelings are valid and nothing to be ashamed or embarrassed about.
Accept The Hard Times
It’s okay not to be okay!
Sometimes when times are tough, we just have to roll with the punches and remind ourselves that this too shall pass.
No matter what you say or do, conflict will arise at some point or another, and going out of our way to avoid it can be very exhausting.
The more you practice, the more natural it will become to put yourself first.
“If you try to please all, you please none” – Aesop