How often do you say “no” to things that would interfere with your goals?
Does this “no” truly depend on your goals? Or, does it merely depend on satifying your inner desire to refuse whatsoever interrupt your plans. In other words, making yourself a priority before anyone or anything else. I believe, in most cases it’s the latter.
How often do we say or receive “no” without considering saying “yes” instead.
In Arabic culture, there’s a common saying that suggests; the word Yes is soothing. Does saying “yes” imply you are weak, submissive, or aimless. Of course not, as long as you keep on track to fulfil your plans or goals.
To make my point clear: imagine you’re going on holiday with your friends. The trip was planned but money has not been paid, yet. Then your mother came into your room. You told her about your plans, but then she asked you to make a slight change of dates.
Before even asking for the reason. ‘No,’ you say. ‘I’ve already made my plans,’ you add. ‘But you haven’t even asked why?’ Your mother say. ‘I am not going to change my plans, but okay why? You ask, reluctantly, and then your mother explains her reasons.
Would the world had fallen apart if your “Yes” came before your “No”? If you put aside your priorities and think for a minute or so until you know the reason. Would things be better if you say; ‘Yes, mum, I haven’t paid for it yet. I will see what my friends think, but if we couldn’t make changes, I promise to do that before or after the trip.
The scenario could be different with the mother playing the son. But, the underlying point remains the same. Why rush to say “No”, if it can say “Yes” first.
With all the best wishes,
Nahla
Pure and Simple 