Many people find it really difficult to say no in certain situations, and if you are one of them, find out a few reasons why we should all learn to say no sometimes.
I don't know about you, but I'm definitely a people-pleaser. This probably has to do with where I come from, my upbringing, and more than anything my personality type (ENFJ), but I really can't stand any kind of confrontation or conflict and I will usually do whatever it takes to avoid situations like these. I wasn't even aware of the fact that I'm like this until a few years ago when it suddenly became clear to me - I always want everyone to like me and I always try to find a diplomatic way out of every situation. Maybe this doesn't sound bad, but the catch is that I often have a problem saying no to people because I am afraid they will be offended, or that they won't like me anymore for some reason. The funny thing is I'm not usually afraid of conflict when it comes to standing for something I believe in, but I can't stand any kind of conflict on a personal level.
The problem with this situation is that when you're too nice, some people will use this as an opportunity to take advantage of you in some way. I've been told multiple times by different people that I'm too nice to individuals who don't deserve it, and I'm actually aware of it. However I was raised to always be super nice and polite, hence saying no almost seems rude to me in some occasions. I have to say I am getting better with time when it comes to saying no, and I have definitely refused to do some things in the last couple of years which is a big deal because I know a few years ago I would have just said yes and put up with it.
The power of saying NO
Trust me when I tell you this - once you learn how to say no to people when you don't feel comfortable doing or saying something, you will feel like a total badass and you will understand why we should all learn to say no sometimes. 😎
You can still be polite and say no - it's all about not letting people take advantage of your kindness and generosity. See, there are two types of people - the ones who will appreciate the fact that you are kind and polite, and the ones who will try to take advantage of you when they realize you have these personality traits. It's so important to stay away from the second group as much as you can. It's also important to know that you are not being rude just because you say no to someone. This is a lesson I had to learn myself as well. Of course, there will be situations where saying no is going to be the right thing to do - for example, it's one of the ways how to deal with family asking for money, if you don't want this to become a pattern in the future. After all, you could end up worse off yourself if you keep giving money away, so it's best not to get into the habit of doing so now.
You can't please everyone
Even if you're the nicest person in the world, there will always be people who won't like you. The sooner you realize that, the better. I used to obsess over why someone left me a bad comment or something similar to that, and I would always question what I did wrong... However, sometimes people just want to mean (especially on the internet!) and no matter what you do, they will always spread hate. I personally can't understand that at all, but that's just how it is. At some point you will realize that as well, and then you can just do what makes you happy instead of trying to please everyone and doing things that don't feel right for you.
Saying NO to certain trends
As well all know, trends come and go. Sometimes it's fun try out cool new trends, but sometimes you don't like a certain trend, but you feel pressured to try it just because everyone else is wearing it. I am a firm believer in wearing only what fits your style and personality. If that happens to be the trend right now - great, but if not - who cares?! You should never wear what makes you feel weird or uncomfortable, or just something you don't like, no matter how trendy it is. For example, bucket hats are really trendy right now, but I won't wear them because I personally don't like them. I love embracing trends only if I like them and think they will compliment my style.
Guys, what is your opinion about this? Is it difficult for you to say no in certain situations, or not?
Let me know 😊
Stay fabulous!
xoxo Sienna
WHAT I WORE:
- top: H&M
- shorts: H&M
- sunglasses: Ray-Ban
- shoes: Ami Clubwear
- bag: Rebecca Minkoff
- bracelets: Cruciani