As we approach Thanksgiving, I want to pause, be grateful, and affirm all the times I’ve said, “No.”
I realize that “no” is not often considered an affirmative statement. As kind and generous folks, we usually want to say “yes” when asked to help or assist in any way. Indeed, “yes” seems to leap from our mouths before we fully consider the request. It’s our default response. It feels like we’re being helpful.
I realize that “no” is not often considered an affirmative statement. As kind and generous folks, we usually want to say “yes” when asked to help or assist in any way. Indeed, “yes” seems to leap from our mouths before we fully consider the request. It’s our default response. It feels like we’re being helpful.
Yet, every time we say “yes” to something new, we dilute all the previous commitments we’ve made. To find the time and energy for even one more activity, we often embezzle energy from our standing commitments, other short-term commitments, and ourselves.
So, like a thoughtful “yes,” a well considered “no” is a strong affirmation. It affirms our family, our friends, our work, our health and everything else that fills our minds and calendars.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Quote
Respond intelligently even to unintelligent treatment. Lao-Tzu
Web
Maintaining healthy personal boundaries serves our needs and also protects those to whom we’ve made commitments. Here’s a brief article on how to set and maintain these boundaries (read article).
So, like a thoughtful “yes,” a well considered “no” is a strong affirmation. It affirms our family, our friends, our work, our health and everything else that fills our minds and calendars.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Quote
Respond intelligently even to unintelligent treatment. Lao-Tzu
Web
Maintaining healthy personal boundaries serves our needs and also protects those to whom we’ve made commitments. Here’s a brief article on how to set and maintain these boundaries (read article).
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