"Go ahead, Mom...smell it. Yeah, I know I'm sweaty and covered in dirt. Come on, please! Why not? Please smell my finger". Any takers? Didn't think so. There isn't much less appetizing than a grubby little finger getting shoved in your face. Well, this isn't going to be about stinky fingers or pulling fingers or anything like that. It's really about knowing when to say no and doing it in a way that you will be heard.
We've all been in that situation where someone wants us to do something that we're just not up for. Whether its lack of time or that it interferes with our morals, there will be times when a 'no' is in order, regardless of how uncomfortable it is for you or the receiver. There will be big no's and small ones. Some that come easy and others will make you squirm. Some no's will be serious, others kind of funny.
Knowing and standing up for yourself is a building block to your future. Knowing who you are as a person is more important than knowing what you are (as in a career). Sticking up for yourself by putting your foot down is sometimes a very necessary. Though sometimes a challenge, you will be stronger for doing it. As young people, we are succumb to peer pressure. Decide who you are and stick to your guns.
You will find that as you get older, your days become shorter. I know that's hard to believe, but it really does feel that way. And once you have your own children, you will see that being pulled in three directions from kids, work, husband, friends, etc. can get tiresome. You and your time become the hot commodity. Just getting the basics done in a day can be overwhelming, but when someone asks to get your help or to watch their kids...a challenging day can become pretty brutal quickly. Most people love to help friends and family and the school where their kids go, just keep yourself in check. If you spread yourself too thin, you aren't worth much to anyone.
People will always want to to agree with them and do what they want you to do. Letting people down gently is something you should firmly and honestly. Don't give excuses and reasons that aren't really true. Honesty goes a long way. Especially, when someone asks you to do something wrong. Saying no to peer pressure shows your friends that you are confident enough to stand your ground. Although they may pick on you initially, they will ultimately respect you for being the strong one. Be the leader...not the follower.
No is a powerful word that should be used wisely. Be polite, but firm. Say no and mean it!
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