Humanist

Daily writing prompt

How often do you say “no” to things that would interfere with your goals?

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I am socialized not to say “no” directly.

The hypocrisy of my socialization is that you are expected to say “no” indirectly.

Delay answering and they will get the message that your answer is “no” kind of logic.

So, I am learning to bite my tongue and not be upfront with my answer “no”.

Buy time, so I give my “no” answer indirectly.

Then there is that whole culture of “actions speak louder than words” and so I am also socialized not to say “no” but act out the “no”.

Yes, very confusing indeed!

Women such as I who bravely go against the norm and give direct answer “no” are classified “mad”.

I am learning to embrace the category “mad” and I look forward to voicing more direct “no” answers to things that will interfere with my goal.

Ironically, often our goal to enjoy good mental health is interfered with, because it is often the case we could not say “no” directly.

Be the “mad” one and say “no” for your mental health.