I had an interaction a few weeks ago that has been returning to my mind. Following a meeting with someone, I was told that I came across as rude during a conversation that didn’t go their way and that I should really be more mindful of how I say things. Essentially, in this particular meeting, they were saying “Respect your elders.”
As someone who’s spent her entire life being told she’s too bold or too abrasive, I spend a lot of time dreading conversations like this as they make it really hard for me to say no to things – I’d rather avoid a potential conflict or appear in a negative light.
But at the this exact moment, I suddenly realized I also felt extremely powerful – they wanted what I had to offer, they just wanted it freely given and on their terms. When I redirected the conversation by stating that I was simply expressing my limited capacity to help them with something I no longer desired to do, they were utterly baffled and the conversation ended there.
The reminder for me in that moment: no one else in entitled to benefit from my talents or my time. These are my gifts to exchange for fun or funding (like a paycheck or community service or time with friends) as I see fit. Just me – I decide.
I hope you all go into this Monday feeling fully connected with your intellectual power, surrounded by people who cheer as you grow and thrive, and that you find a few people this week to freely give your time and talents to.
Happy Monday! 🥰
Devine Perks 