Expressing negatives define individuals Sep03 '05

Saying "no"

Someone once said, "I’ve had a lot more fun in life saying "Yes," than saying "No."

I think this statement is true, but I never under-estimate the power, security, and individuality of saying "No." I believe people will respect you more, when you say "No." I believe you will respect yourself more, by saying "No."

Nobody knows you, like you. You are the only one who knows you’re limits, patience, and sense of judgement.

Every day, we react to events and situations, as they are presented to us. Every day, we make hundreds of choices and decisions - some without even realizing it. Many of these decisions are simple "yes or no" answers. And despite how simple that answer sounds - it’s a choice that goes as deep as everything we’ve ever lived for.

One of the most important decisions I make, every day, is how to use my time. Only I can see my future - the next morning - the next week - the next month. Only I can decide whether or not I have time to spend on something, or with someone. Only I can judge whether the situation presented is in my "best interests."

And, only I must deal with the repercussions of a poor decision.

That is why you should never feel bad saying "no."

"No" is one of the most negative-sounding words in the English language, but it is the most bold and powerful. Saying "no" lets the other person (or your conscience) know how stern you really are. And it is within that firmness that our individuality lies.

I don’t like it

It’s just as important to express your dislike for something.

Many people feel ashamed to not like a particular movie, song, book, or person. Many feel that they are somehow "wrong" for not liking something - and that they must keep it inside, or "hide the fact." Many try to express only the feelings that the other party wants to hear.

You should never hide how you feel. You should never "customize" your feelings for someone else, by only telling them what they want to hear, in order to keep a specific relationship strong.

In the end, a relationship (friend, family, significant other) will live or die by the honest truth.

And saying, "I don’t like it" is the first important step.

Until next time

Unto yourself, your friends, family, and others - remain resolved in your decisions, but always open-hearted.

Categories: Life , Personal

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matthom is published and produced by Matt Thommes - an independent publishing enthusiast, mobile blogger, content creator, informative writer, web developer from Chicago. Never one to conform, Matt intends to promote the effect the web has on our lives, in an effort to intensify, instruct, and clarify all that is happening around us.