I've struggled my whole life with saying "no." I've always found energy and joy in constantly moving, giving, doing. Thanks to some friends I made last week, I'm learning that this drive is one that stems from my perfectionist personality (the enneagram is real- Google it). I am wired to feel like I want to and am capable of doing and being and giving my best at all times, for all people, in all places. Part of me loves this about myself because it means I'm inclined to live life fully, but another part of me is beginning to see how this drive can be destructive. When I can never find the strength to say "no," then I'm probably spreading myself too thin and I end up disappointing people I've made commitments to or giving only 50% because I'm too tired to put in my best effort.
Living in Uganda is rocking my perfectionist world by showing me just how vast the need is, not just here but in every country in various ways. The difference here is that my appearance signals that I'm not Ugandan and therefore I'm perceived as being more able to help. If I were to actually believe that I could give everyone everything they asked me for or put effort into every cause, I would explode. The need is just too big. No one can take it on alone. But I'm learning the beautiful thing is that I don't have to. By being intentional about only saying "yes" to the things I feel I have the time and ability for, I'm allowing myself the opportunity to better serve and allowing others the opportunity to do the same.
Today's challenge is most applicable for people more yes-inclined like myself, but anyone can try it! The next time someone extends an invitation or asks a favor, listen to your initial response (probably "yes") and take a moment to consider why it is your initial response. If the answer to this question is anything other than "because God's given me the desire and ability to" then consider answering differently.
Living in Uganda is rocking my perfectionist world by showing me just how vast the need is, not just here but in every country in various ways. The difference here is that my appearance signals that I'm not Ugandan and therefore I'm perceived as being more able to help. If I were to actually believe that I could give everyone everything they asked me for or put effort into every cause, I would explode. The need is just too big. No one can take it on alone. But I'm learning the beautiful thing is that I don't have to. By being intentional about only saying "yes" to the things I feel I have the time and ability for, I'm allowing myself the opportunity to better serve and allowing others the opportunity to do the same.
Today's challenge is most applicable for people more yes-inclined like myself, but anyone can try it! The next time someone extends an invitation or asks a favor, listen to your initial response (probably "yes") and take a moment to consider why it is your initial response. If the answer to this question is anything other than "because God's given me the desire and ability to" then consider answering differently.
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