I start to say no, then swallow the words under the covers.
Even after deciding to turn down a request, once the lights are off, I picture the other person’s face and end up saying yes.
Scenes
- After lights out, I rewrite the words to say no. — I start to say no to a request I got during the day, then stop. Under the covers, I rewrite the words, afraid the other person will feel hurt.
- The request is over, but my answer keeps circling in my mind. — They asked, and I said yes. But before I fall asleep, I go over why I answered so quickly.
- Explore why saying no feels hard through saju temperament — Saju temperament doesn’t label you as someone who can’t say no. It helps you notice what you want to protect first when asked: your relationship or your own breathing room.
- Tonight, try writing just one line — You don’t have to send it yet. Write one sentence about how much of the request you can take on. You may find an answer between saying yes and no.
- Saying no doesn’t end a relationship — When you look at your saju temperament alongside real-life circumstances, you can find an answer that considers the relationship while setting a limit on what you can give. It’s enough to think about that much today.
Stories by Dowon
- Dowon
- When I try to write down my experience, all I can see is the work I’ve always done.
- When she’s slow to reply, I ask my daughter again.
- Every weekend afternoon, I go over my fixed costs again.
- I can't get to my plan even after putting my child to bed.
- After the holiday, I find myself wanting to try something new.
- I can’t choose a move-out date in the hospital waiting room
- After the work dinner, I wonder if working with people is right for me.
- When I stop exercising, it feels like the life I want gets put off too.