EMPOWERING MYSELF

When saying yes to you means saying no to me I know that I’m in the troubling territory of “Rescuing”.  It is very tempting at times to make peace by not speaking up for what I need or want, by focusing my time and attention on you rather than my own needs, by allowing disrespectful behavior, and by doing things I’d rather not do.  I suppose it’s safe not to rock the boat, but in the end I am the one who feels resentful, hurt, and angry.  It isn’t fair of me to expect that you will magically know what I want or need or realize when my boundaries have been compromised.  Only by communicating directly and assertively can you have awareness of my needs. 

Today, I choose greater recognition of when I am entering into rescuing behavior and will take the risk to set the boundaries that I need to set even if I make waves.  I will say yes to my own need to be treated with respect and I will communicate my feelings and needs honestly and directly.