Don't worry. It's okay to say no!

 

People keep taking from those who keep giving. This is a fact.

Whether it is that colleague who does all the extra work which everyone asks of them, or whether it is that adult child who does everything for their parents (while the other children do absolutely nothing) or whether it is one of the parents who does everything when it comes to taking care of the kids/home, the load is never 'equally shared'.

Often it is because, the person who does the extra work is extremely compassionate and caring. They also probably feel guilty to say no, and to stand up for themselves. Sometimes it is the circumstances  beyond their control which place them in that position.

Whatever it may be, if you are caught in this place, it is important to take care of yourself. It is important to do things that bring you joy. If you don't do it, you're headed towards a burnout.

There's a saying in Malayalam 'Karayunna kuttike paaalu ollu'.  Trnaslated into English, it means that only the baby that cries gets the milk.  No one thinks that it is 'selfish' to 'cry for the milk'.

The reason I used that analogy/proverb/metaphor is to remind people who keep giving, to pause and take stock. It's okay to refuse. It's okay to put your needs first. In fact, it is very important to.

Only then can you continue to care for others, without resentment and with joy.

New post tomorrow!
Till then, give yourself some love!
Preeti

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ps: This is post 28 of blog marathon.

Photo by Content Pixie on Unsplash