1. My health comes first- even if that means inconveniencing others.
The most important thing is my health. Neglecting to take care of my body and mind in order to take care of someone else is unhealthy. I should never feel guilty about making sure my health is my top priority. If that means asking for assistance or reminding others of my limitations, I’ll do so.
2. Instead of saying “sorry” I will say “thank you”.
There is a time and place for apologies. But there is no reason to be sorry for simple things like making someone wait a few extra minutes. Instead of saying, “I’m so sorry I’m late!” I’ll say, “thank you for your patience!”
3. I owe people respect and dignity but not my time.
Everybody being should be treated with respect and dignity, but not everyone deserves my time. If someone is bringing negativity or hatred into my life, I don’t owe them an explanation or conversation. I can- and will -simply withdrawal from the situation for my own wellbeing.
4. I won’t hold myself to a strict timeline. It will get done when it gets done.
The laundry can wait an extra day if I’m too tired to get to it today. It will still be there tomorrow. There is no need to beat myself up over not completing things I think I *need* to be doing right away.
5. Saying ‘no’ is okay and I don’t owe anyone an explanation.
I don’t need to say ‘yes’ out of guilt or fear. I can say no and let that be that. Not every decision I make needs to be justified in order to make someone else feel better.
Personal policies are a way of setting boundaries as form of self-love. Sometimes it’s easy to feel unsure on how to say no or not engage in things when you feel guilty about doing so. Personal policies ensure that you’re putting yourself first and gives you the confidence to stand behind the things you believe strongly about. This helps eliminate unnecessary anxiety and stress that bogs us down in our day-to-day life. So stop wasting energy on things you genuinely do not care about or things that make you miserable.
A Heart For Humanity 