Are you someone who automatically says "yes" to any request or favor ?

The following are ten top things to consider before saying "yes" to a request.

1) Do you have the reserves or energy to help someone at this time ? Selfcare is the foundation to being there for others.

2) Are you the right person for the job ? Is there someone who it would be better to refer the person?

3) Can you teach this person how to help themselves ? Empowering someone can be the distinction between a temporary fix and and an ongoing solution.

4. Are you sure you want to do this activity ? Can you fulfill this request withoutresentment ? Being in integrity is an important part of life.

5. Will you be able to keep this commitment ? It is better to underpromise and overdeliver. It magnifies your credibility.

6. Will this experience add to the richness of your life ? Will this be a "win-win" situation ?

7. Does this activity contribute or distract from your personal mission statement ?

8.Will you feel guilt or shame if you say no to this person ? This can be a sign that you are emotionally blackmailing yourself.

9. Are you saying "yes" to impress someone or prove something ? Honesty and authenticity are what truly attract others.

10. Are you trying to win someone's favor ? This can be a form of trying to buy someone's love.

You can more consciously choose where and how to invest your energy. If you have doubts on whether to say "yes" to someone it is helpful to tell them you need time to think about it or check your schedule. It can be a wonderful stress reducer to "just say maybe". It is perfectly OK to take the time you need to respond properly. It is also perfectly OK to say "no". What you give to others then becomes an act of fulfillment rather than an act of sacrifice. This allows others to receive from us in a spirit of love rather than obligation.