I have a hard time saying "no"

United States
December 11, 2006 7:14am CST
Everyone seems to know they can ask for anything and I will do or give them what they want..I interiorize everything and so rather than hurt someone's feelings I dont say "no" so what do I do?
3 responses
konyaku
@konyaku (116)
• Philippines
11 Dec 06
you just have to explain to that person how difficult it is for you to do the things that he or she wants. If she's/he's a real friend, he'll/she'll understand you ^^
littlefranciscan
@littlefranciscan (18327)
• United States
11 Dec 06
They always look so sad or needy when asking or make you feel like you are the only one who can help..that the world depends on me!
msqtech
@msqtech (15074)
• United States
20 Dec 06
there are books which help you do this in marriage with children and for yourself. Boundaries books series
Writermom
@Writermom (10)
• United States
11 Dec 06
I am very similar. I put everyone else before myself. I actually feel guilty for saying no to someone else. The older I get the easier it is to say no. Now that I have a son my first commitment is to him so it is easier to say no to others.
littlefranciscan
@littlefranciscan (18327)
• United States
11 Dec 06
Thanks for saying that I am not alone in this difficulty..If I had the courage to say "no" many of my other trials I am going through would have been elinated before they started..
msqtech
@msqtech (15074)
• United States
20 Dec 06
You need to learn how to protect yourself and not be so open to all. You can be a good person but not a doormat. You can choose to say I havent time. Your resources are limited and you need to prioritize and use that to say no when you need to. Merry Christmas!!