Ripple effect -05
Mrs. Ramya Sethu Ram M.E
Hello Readers,
Have you ever felt the burden of saying “yes” to something you didn’t want to do. Over time, it accumulates and starts to kill your inner peace? Maybe you have agreed to take on extra work at the office, attend a social gathering when all you wanted was rest, or help out with a project you had no interest in. Slowly, these moments of saying yes begin to pile up, and you start to feel overwhelmed, drained, and even cheated by your own decisions. You find yourself wondering, “Why didn’t I just say no?”
The struggle behind saying NO:
Most of us find it hard to say no, even when we know deep down that we should. Whether it is at home, at work, or in social situations, we often feel pressured to say yes for fear of disappointing others or being judged. Maybe it is the guilt of letting someone down, the fear of seeming selfish, or the desire to avoid conflict. Over time, this inability to set boundaries can lead to serious consequences.
In social circles, you volunteer for tasks you have no interest in, just to maintain your image. With friends and family, you agree to attend every event, even when you are exhausted, because you don’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings. At work, you say yes to taking on extra projects to prove your dedication, but the workload becomes unbearable. These yeses pile up, and soon you feel overwhelmed by commitments that don’t truly benefit you.
The consequences of always saying ‘YES’
Constantly saying yes can lead to burnout (feeling physically and mentally exhausted from overworking), as you take on more than you can handle, leaving little time for your own needs. This often results in loss of self, where you lose sight of your personal goals and desires, prioritizing others at the cost of your own happiness. Over time, it can also create resentment in relationships, as you feel unappreciated or taken for granted, leading to frustration and emotional exhaustion.
The power of saying ‘No’
Learning to say ‘No’ allows you to regain control over your time and energy. It helps you set boundaries, avoiding burnout and freeing up space for things that truly matter.
Saying ‘No’ isn’t about rejecting others, it’s about prioritizing your own needs and focusing on what aligns with your goals. By doing this, you protect your well-being and realize that it’s okay to not please everyone. In fact, saying no is a vital part of self-care and living a balanced, fulfilled life.
…contd in Aalumai Sirpi Magazine.
