I’ve known for awhile that I need to set boundaries with certain people. However, I am too “nice” for the most part. I have a hard time with this because I don’t want to hurt anyone. There have been periods in my life where I have let others take advantage of me because I have been too meek to put up fences.
Not anymore! I have a new attitude because I am tired of putting the needs of others before mine. Cases in point:
- When Jazmine’s mom is being whiny about my lack of visiting trips, I ignore her. I no longer get defensive and angry. I’ve decided that I will take her to visit when it is convenient for me, and it may never be convenient for me to do so!
- I’ve decided if Eliza’s sister tries to contact me again that I won’t hide from my ringing phone. I am going to answer and kindly ask her not to call me ever again. I’ve already donated their clothes so there is no reason to bother me. I’m done with that chapter.
- My little brother loves to borrow money from me. However, he only calls when he needs something which in turn, makes me feel used. I don’t like this feeling! Therefore, the next time he calls I am not going to allow him to manipulate me into giving him money.
- If I don’t feel like doing something, I’m going to take Nancy’s advice and “Just Say No!” My hair stylist was hosting a cosmetics party that I did not want to attend. One, because I had attended a gathering from the same company a couple of months ago. Two, I don’t really like their products. I am proud to say that I stuck to my guns on this one! In the past I would have went regardless of my true desire.
- The custodian at work has been trying to use his broom to sweep me off my feet. I haven’t told him outright that I am not interested in fear of hurting his feelings. However, I know that I can no longer tiptoe through the tulips–I plan to tell him firmly how I feel because I don’t want to land myself in a situation that I don’t want to be in.
- I haven’t attended any of the meetings at the new school that I have been assigned to in the fall. After working a full day, attending meetings at my present place of employment, and picking up and caring for the kids–I have no time. I refuse to do double duty and try to serve two masters. When I am an official employee of the other school, I will follow their program. Until then, I am not going to drive myself ragged, not to mention, locate and pay for a babysitter!
These are only a few ways that I am staying true to myself. How about you?