I've been on a lifetime mission of finding the balance of being true to myself & being supportive to those I love.

I have failed MOORE times than succeeded.

However, I am learning that it is okay to be direct with others and to have boundaries at the same time.. that protect yourself and those you think highly of.

For the longest, I thought if I say the right thing, give the compliment, overachieve, etc.. That I would be doing the "right" thing. AKA ( A YES MAN)

As of late, I am learning that doing the right thing by me sometimes, seems to others like I'm doing the wrong thing.

That's their opinion. They are entitled to it.

Who want's to be told NO?

Who want's their biggest enabler to stop providing?

Who want's their biggest cheerleader to stop cheerleading?

Who want's their best player on the bench?

NOONE.

Saying NO to others has allowed space for me to start saying YES to myself. I've turned around and poured into the cup that pours into many.

When I can remember that through love, compassion, empathy, & sincerity.. Being direct is the greatest tool to combatting that people pleaser DNA.

I've made progress, but I still have a long way to go.

Today,

I am okay with that. I don't have to be anywhere I'm not. I don't have to always say YES. I don't have to be #1. I'm not here to save anyone. I don't have to perform for love.

I honestly, can simply just be me. That is enough.

Me being me, allows others to have their own experience in life. No force, no manipulating, no performance. Just my truth. Their right to do with it whatever they may please.

Sincerely,

A Recovering People Pleaser