Many people find it hard to say ‘no’ or ‘enough’ to people and situations. Sometimes we find ourselves taking on many things that do not benefit us and also don’t align with our values simply because someone has asked us to do it, or assumed that we would ‘be fine with it’. It is a scary and intimidating skill to practice at first – where we tell someone that we are not comfortable with that situation, or we would prefer not to do something that they have suggested or asked. Our society has pushed us to always be amenable. However, as you continue to practice this skill and employing it with grace, an explanation and politeness, you will find that others will actually have an increased respect for you and your time. You will also spend less of your life feeling trapped by others’ demands of you and you can find ways to help others in ways that build on your own strengths and preferences and enrich their lives in ways they may never have thought to ask for. It isn’t about being selfish with your time (although, sometimes you do have to be), it is about using your strengths and values to make yourself and others better people with fuller lives. So, if there is something in your life that is putting an upleasant pressure on you, consider having a conversation with a key person about the situation and a potential solution that will benefit everyone involved.
LLUMI Australia 