The Power to Say No

I am keeping in mind right now that I have the power to say "NO" and I'm not afraid to use it.

I have spent a great deal of my life trying my best to not say no when people ask me to do something or if they need my help. There are times that saying no would have really come in handy and helped me out personally but I chose not to in order to satisfy other people.

I've come to learn that there are people who do not appreciate this as much as you think they will, nor do they realize that you have sacraficed yourself to help them. It's not that the gratitude is necessary every time but occassionally it is very welcomed, and even necessary at times.

Therefore, I have learned that using my right to say no is very freeing. I do not use it whimsically. If I can help someone I will but not at the sake of putting off my family and what they need or what I need as well. It seems to be a part of learning self-worth. I can give all I want to others but if I do not also give to myself, I will eventually have nothing left to give.

Realize that if you have needs, that you must also ask for help, be gracious and be willing to give back. If you have people in your life who ask but are never there for you or expect you to never say no and who are upset when you do, cut your losses while you can.

What are some situations in which you have found yourself saying yes when you shouldn't have?

What are some helpful tips you can offer to others who put themselves in this situation?

Thank you for sharing.