It is nothing wrong with be supportive to others, as long as we don't allow ourselves to become overly involve with others that we neglect ourselves. It is Okay to Say No!! But it is a powerful little word. That simply word can cause resentment, hurt, disappointment, heart aches and headaches.
There are times when we try to please everyone but ourselves and we find ourselves committing to things we have no time or desire for. Out guilt or the fear of hurting some one's feeling, we take on more and more tasks leaving little or no time for ourselves.
In this fast-paced world, Most of us are overwhelmed with our work, home, school, children, and community activities. And we began to feel that life seems dissatisfying . It is not that life is dissatisfying, but we continuing cramming in more than we can handle. We need to eliminate some of the "yeses" in our life and stop making promises that we can' deliver.
If you're not using these tactics, try them and you will find time that you never knew you had. And always be polite and respectful when saying no.
Plans
Tell them you have plans. No matter how small or large a plan is, it is still a plan. Rather watching TV, reading a book, catching up on some rest, taking dog for a walk. These are plans and treat them as such. Don't cheat yourself. You will be glad that you have these plans.
Out of sight, out of mind
How many of us use this tactic? When we do not want to talk to a friend, family member, or co-worker on the phone. Instead we check the caller id and don't answer the call. Yes that is saying no without hurting any one's feelings.
Stall time
Allow yourself time to think things over before making a decision.
A response might be:
Let me check my calendar, I'll get back to you. or be direct, I need time to think about this, I'll let you know.
Hold to your decision without feeling guilty. Because you have no reason to feel guilty if the decision come from the heart and not guilt.
