Each of us could easily name all the times we compromised on something to support someone else or for the “greater good”…
Go out for a drink after I’ve worked back-to-back late nights to talk about that bad date? I got you.
Spend my Saturday mitigating family drama over FaceTime? Of course.
Bring my laptop for that long weekend in case anyone needs me? For sure.
We all have times when we want (or need) to be accommodating. And being empathy-driven is a major strength—it keeps us connected with those around us and helps us feel purposeful and useful.
But you already know the catch: Something’s gotta give.
Our energy. Our time. Our joy.
These are all tradeoffs we make when we say “yes” to others and, ultimately, say “no” to ourselves.
There’s a reason saying “yes” feels so much easier than dropping that other two-letter word: Studies show our brains literally retreat when confronted with the word “no.”
Plus, we’re often socialized to think that taking time for ourselves is “indulging” or that if we prioritize things like family or friends over work that we’re somehow “less dedicated.”
Umm, no.
The good news? Sometimes taking even three seconds before responding to someone can help you prioritize your wellbeing and your boundaries.
So here’s your challenge for the week, Kaylee: The next time you’re prepping a YES or NO response, ask yourself: What do I need right now?
Maybe spending a night out *isn’t* what you need. Or maybe it is. Maybe a night on the couch watching Fleabag isn’t what you need. Or maybe it is.
Being accommodating won’t make you worthy.
Being perpetually available won’t make you worthy.
You make you worthy, Kaylee.
And you only work if you prioritize what you need.
