The Power of "No"
Copyright © 2003, All Rights Reserved

I’m willing to bet most of you were raised similarly to myself. I was a little princess, but I was not spoiled. My mother repeatedly reminded me that anything is possible if I set my mind. I also learned early that being a people pleaser brought joy to others and myself. So much in fact, that it can be my downfall at times.

One of the problems with being a “people pleaser” is that too often, we have trouble admitting our limitations. We are so afraid of letting someone down, that we sacrifice other things of significance or importance. The other problem is trying to please everyone at all times. The truth is, you will never be able to please everyone and you have limitations - we all do!

Trying to please everyone and ignoring your limitations only causes frustration, hard feelings and setbacks to your success in other areas. I’m sure with a little thought you can remember a situation that backs this statement up. What’s a woman to do now that she recognizes this problem? Simply learn to say “No.” I realize it’s an ugly word and hard to say at times, but for your sanity, you must learn to use it and use it as often as needed. Remember telling your toddler “no” the first few times? His face wrinkled up, tears sprang forth, and a giant bottom lip protruded, shortly followed by howling. It broke your heart, didn’t it? Eventually, you recovered and expected the reaction you received from your child. You also realized (even though he had no understanding of it) that you were looking out for his welfare.

Learning to use the word “No” is vital to YOUR welfare and your immediate family’s as well. Eventually, this will become easier for you, just as it did with your toddler. Be firm but professional and stand your ground. You will be more respected in the end for admitting your limitations than overburdening yourself and failing to meet all your obligations. Say “No” to someone today! You’ll thank yourself later.

About the Author:
Michele Barber is the owner of www.ChelesTreasures.com and Conversations With Chele, WAHM, a newsletter for work at home moms with support and resources needed to survive the work at home rat race. Subscribe here:
http://www.chelestreasures.com/newsletter.htm

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