In My Mind’s Blog

I guess going to a Catholic school and not having a complete set of parents while growing up made me feel not confident about myself.  I felt that I had to please people to get their acceptance and approval.  But I realized at an early age (maybe 13) that concept was very stressful.  I remember I even got sick because I couldn’t say no.  I promised my classmates that I can do all of the artwork for a certain class project we had.  I wanted so much to do a great job that I got burnt out…I couldn’t even move.  It was very sad…I ran a fever and I couldn’t even lift a pencil to draw or color.  It was a good thing my classmates were resourceful and they finished the project anyway.  It was embarassing for me, because I felt that I failed them. 

Now that I’m older (and hopefully wiser)…I try my best to say "no" to things when I know I can’t deliver or just don’t want to do it.  It’s so empowering!  So sad to think there are a few I know that can never say "no".  They don’t realize that they’re hurting themselves and quite possibly hurt another person in the process. 

What works for me is when I know I’m being true to myself when asked to do something.  It also depends if the task pleases me or if it’s to please someone else.  Ultimately, when I do something I always make it a point to consider people’s feelings and weigh the consequences of my actions.  The point of this blog…when you say "yes", make sure you mean it.

I didn’t understand why a friend of mine is deciding to do something drastic despite everything he has started and accomplished. Upon learning about his decision, I couldn’t believe what I was hearing.  I guess, as a friend, you just want what is best for the other person.  I’m just glad that I got to talk more to him last nite and now… I think I  fully understand why he has to do what he needs to do.  He’ll be losing a lot, but I guess one’s health and sanity is far greater than any riches in the world. I just hope he bounces back and everything works out for the better.