Everyone ends up saying ‘yes’ when we really mean ‘no’ at some point in life — no use denying it.
Most of the time, it’s no big deal — it probably just means you end up at a party when you’d rather be on the couch watching TV, or you agree to give the loud mouth in your office a lift to work when you’d prefer a peaceful drive. However, sometimes, you really do need to prioritise your ‘no’ in the name of self-respect, especially when it comes to these things.
1. Being a doormat for toxic people
It’s more than okay to distance yourself from people who constantly bring you down — in fact, it’s healthy! You’re not an emotional punching bag, so don’t let them treat you like one. Your mental health will thank you for it.
2. Overcommitting yourself
We’ve all been guilty of trying to squeeze 48 hours of stuff into a 24-hour day, but running yourself ragged isn’t a badge of honour, and we need to stop acting like it is. It’s okay to admit you’re not superhuman. No one is!
3. Tolerating disrespect, even from loved ones
Just because someone’s family or a close friend doesn’t give them a free pass to treat you like rubbish. Love doesn’t mean accepting poor treatment. You have to set boundaries, even with the people closest to you. Respect is a two-way street, after all.
4. Talking to yourself like garbage
You wouldn’t let someone else constantly put you down, so why do it to yourself? That little voice in your head that says you’re not good enough? Tell it to pipe down. You’re doing your best, and that’s pretty darn good.
5. Compromising your values for anyone
Your principles are part of what makes you, well, you. Don’t chuck them out the window just to please someone else or fit in. If something goes against your core beliefs, stand your ground. You’re not a chameleon; you don’t need to change your colours for anyone else.
6. Unrealistic beauty standards
The pressure to look like a photoshopped magazine cover is real, but it’s also rubbish. Your worth isn’t measured in kilograms or clothing sizes. Embrace your unique look. After all, if we all looked the same, the world would be a pretty boring place.
7. Putting up with one-sided relationships
Friendships and relationships should be a two-way street, not a solo performance. If you’re always the one making an effort, it might be time to reevaluate. You’re not a stage performer; you shouldn’t have to do all the work while other people just sit back and watch.
8. Neglecting your physical health
It’s easy to put your health on the back burner when life gets hectic. But your body is the only place you have to live, so treat it with respect. Say ‘no’ to constantly burning the candle at both ends. You’re not a smartphone; you can’t function on low battery all the time.
9. Ignoring your gut feelings
That niggling feeling in your stomach when something’s not right is something you should listen to. Your intuition is like your personal early warning system. If a situation feels off, it probably is. You’re not being paranoid; you’re being smart.
10. Constantly trying to earn other people’s approval
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It’s exhausting trying to please everyone all the time. It’s impossible, anyway. Focus on being true to yourself instead of bending over backwards for other people’s approval. You’re not a people-pleasing pretzel; it’s okay to stand straight sometimes.
11. Settling for less than you deserve
Source: Unsplash Whether it’s in relationships, work, or life in general, know your worth. Don’t accept scraps when you deserve a full meal. You’re not a bargain bin item; don’t let anyone treat you like one.
12. Letting fear hold you back
It’s easy to let fear of failure or judgement keep you from pursuing your dreams, but you owe it to yourself to at least try. You’re not a statue; you’re meant to move and grow. Don’t let fear turn you to stone.
13. Comparing yourself to other people
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It’s not selfish to take care of yourself. In fact, it’s necessary. You can’t pour from an empty cup, as the old saying goes, so make sure you’re filling yours up regularly. You’re not a robot; you need maintenance too.
15. Staying in your comfort zone forever
Growth happens outside your comfort zone. While it’s cosy in there, don’t let it become a prison. Challenge yourself now and then. That’s the only way you’ll ever become the best version of yourself.
16. Dwelling on past mistakes
We all mess up sometimes. Learn from it, sure, but don’t let past errors define your future. You have so many more chances in life to do amazing things, so take them!
17. Letting anyone else dictate your life path
Source: Unsplash It’s your life, not anyone else’s. While advice can be helpful, the final decisions should be yours. Whether it’s about your career, relationships, or personal choices, trust yourself.
