Counting the Cost

"If I have a lot on my plate, I try to set realistic expectations before taking on something else. I say something like, 'I can do this for you, but I probably will not be able to get it to you until next week.' That way, if it is a project or task of high priority, someone else can be assigned rather than having to endure constant nagging and reminders that you have not yet finished. " ~ Jeanette

"Have you read Mary Byers' new book, "How To Say No...And Live To Tell About It?" Good stuff. You can find her online at www.thenoqueen.com or www.marybyers.com." ~ Jennifer

"I am active in our local historical society, doing the publicity for all events and running two events per year. In January my husband had a medical crisis and my elderly in-laws were in need of our help downsizing. I wrote a letter to the historical society's executive board explaining that these family matters demand my attention and that I can only do the publicity and not run any events until further notice. (I was slated to run one this month -- it would have been impossible!) A board member read my letter to the entire board so now the boundaries are clear. 'Family first' is something that people understand when it is clearly stated." ~ Alene

"This is a very timely topic for me as I have had to say no to several requests in the last few weeks! My rule of thumb is I will provide one service (and perform it to the best of my abilities!) for each of the following groups:

* Church

* Community activity

* Homeschool

* Career activity

If someone from say church says, 'I think you should be nominated for such and such,' I say, 'No thank you, I am already involved with......' This gets easier the more you do it!

Unfortunately, the old saying goes, 'If you want something done, ask a busy person. But this can get old after awhile because your family and personal life can take a nosedive. Then the guilt, burnout, and exhaustion from stress can affect your health. So KEEP IT SIMPLE, SWEETIE. It is perfectly okay to be active in outside affairs; just remember: There is only one of you!" ~ Colleen in GA

Editor's Note: Thanks to all these readers who took time to write!

...of Emotional Well-being

CTC Readers' Poll:
Setting Healthy Boundaries

In the March 1, 2007 issue of the newsletter, Counting the Cost editor
Nancy Twigg asked readers this question:

Responses:

...of Emotional Well-being

CTC Readers' Poll: Setting Healthy Boundaries

In the March 1, 2007 issue of the newsletter, Counting the Cost editor Nancy Twigg asked readers this question:

Responses:

CTC Readers' Poll:
Setting Healthy Boundaries

In the March 1, 2007 issue of the newsletter, Counting the Cost editor
Nancy Twigg asked readers this question: