Think about the term ‘self-care’ for a moment. What kinds of thoughts come to mind? Perhaps self-pampering like taking a warm bath, getting a manicure, or snuggling under a blanket. Maybe you’re also thinking of self-care activities like taking a hike, going for a walk, or calling a friend.
Self-care can include all of these things, but part of self-care is also assessing what we need for ourselves and putting our own needs before the needs of others. That is why it is important to say ‘no’ to others when you need to. It can be hard to say ‘no’ but when you need to be true to your own needs, it can be so beneficial.
How Does Saying ‘No’ Help?
First, saying ‘no’ is a way to set important, healthy boundaries with others. It can be a way to identify what is most important to us. It can also help us to acknowledge and cut-out toxic relationships we may have in our lives.
Second, we can achieve good work-life balance by saying ‘no.’ If you boss, manager, or a consumer asks you to complete a task that is out of your comfort zone, or if the expectations are unrealistic, you can find a way to say ‘no’ by expressing your feelings, asking for help, or stating what you might need to complete that task.
Third, saying ‘no’ can help us feel empowered and self-confident. If you choose to say ‘yes’ to someone or something that will drain your mental and physical energy, you may find yourself angry or resentful towards that person, or even at yourself for agreeing in the first place!
Self-Care is the Bottom Line
Self-care and personal wellness mean putting our own needs first. You may have heard a flight attendant once say that in case of emergency, you put your oxygen mask on before anyone else’s. Why? Because if you don’t put yours on first, you won’t be able to help anyone else! It can be difficult to say ‘no’ to someone or something, but that feeling of difficulty will only last a few moments and will then fade away. Saying ‘yes’ to something you do not want to do can create both long-term and short-term negative thinking.
If you would like some help and guidance with self-care and assertiveness, contact Specialized Therapy Associates at (201)-488-6678. You can find out more about therapy and mind-body health by calling us or visiting our website at Specialized Therapy.
