No… seems like a simple word, a word that should easily roll off the tongue. However. for me it is not easily uttered. I have spent most of my life being a people pleaser.

I got one of my first assignments from my therapist this week, to say no to one person in my home. Seems like a simple task, but for me it is a challenge. Most of my life I was made to feel like the bad guy every time I uttered the word no. The person that that no was directed toward would use the power of manipulation to make me feel guilty for uttering it in the first place.

Each time the tactic worked, I doubted myself, was I right in telling them no? That self-doubt turned into me giving into their demands. It was a vicious cycle that continually happened. I wanted to please those around me, but at what expense?

The expense was myself, always doubting, but also no boundaries in place for those around me. No, is not a bad word. It sets boundaries for those in our life, letting them know what we are and not willing to do. No is also a complete sentence and does not require further explanation as to your reasons why. It should absolutely be accepted at face value.

Will I pass or fail this task? Only time will tell. All I know is that I am up for the challenge of setting more boundaries in my life for those around me.