Although ‘no’ is an important word, sometimes it can be difficult to say. But in order to set healthy boundaries in life, it’s a word we’ll need to learn to use.
Saying no has been a challenge for me in the past, and still is sometimes. But if I have someone I trust, and who knows the situation, encouraging me to set better boundaries—i.e. reminding me that it’s OK to say no sometimes—I’ve found that it’s much easier to do so.
Often when we’re in the midst of the situation, it can be difficult to have the proper perspective. So having a close friend who knows the broader context, but who’s not swept up in the emotion of it all, can be immensely valuable. Of course, we can learn to say no without needing a friend to encourage us to do so. But sometimes that bit of external support can be the very thing that helps us set up boundaries without feeling guilty about doing so.
And just as others can help us set better boundaries, we have the same opportunity with those we’re close to. Who knows? A simple word of encouragement or support might be the very thing that helps a friend set up the boundaries he desperately needs.