How do you tell people that they are asking too much of you?

I do the same thing! I probably won't be of much help to you here but I did want to comment and say I feel for you =( I have a Preschool and people owe me money all the time and I feel too bad to say something. My husband hates that I let people do this to me! Also, with family I am always the first person they call when they need something and when I need something they are somehow never around... Go figure! I am trying to work on this as well, and I am starting to ask more questions when people make a deal with me so we both know what is expected. =)

You may need to think about this issue as it may be sensitive especially at work where you are actually expected to do more than is required of you most of the time. Also when you tell your boss you are being asked more of what you can do, it may actually send a message that you are not qualified, or competent enough to handle the tasks, and the job. It would be a lot easier at home, with your friends as there are always some boundaries when they ask you to do this and some other things in your life. It would be difficult at start but once you are able to sit down and explain your side, your friends and family would pretty much understand you. Just be honest, do not sound too ungiving, restricted. Just sound as though you need them to give you more understanding that you also want to give yourself a rest from all the things they are asking of you and you just need to have a few break.

Well, I guess when it comes to your boss and customers, that's reall not much of an option. Of course I'm not familiar with your exact situation. As for one's parents or spouse...they should be open to hearing that. I would sit them down when there were no distractions around, and tell them what I was feeling. I'd try not to be accusing or impatient because of course that never helps. Sometimes I have to tell people that, and what I really want to do is just tell, leave me alone! But of course that doesn't work. : ) It's just important for clear communication to occur. But they are your loved ones, and hopefully they would listen with your well being in mind.