Why it's Wrong to Give 'til it Hurts

There is a part of all of us that wants to give.  When countries, cities or families need us, we all want to give back.  It's all good, until it's not...

If you fit into the category of giving until it hurts, giving can be detrimental to your stress levels, bank account and your ability to take care of yourself.  Setting a healthy boundary has to be a conscious process of knowing your individual comfort level and when to say "no, I've done enough".  It's worth the time to make decisions in a private, calm setting before we face the world and everyone else's requests.

It's difficult to say "no" if it's "for the kids" or "for the troops" or "for the animals".  There is no perfect amount for a family or individual to give.  Each family has their own comfort level of giving but if you aren't saving for retirement, taking care of yourself has to come before taking care of others and it's no one else's business .  Saving a percentage of each paycheck for yourself must be "Step 1".

Then, take it a day at a time and learn to say "not today, but thank you" when you are asked to give beyond your limits.  If you give beyond your comfort level, resentment builds. Resentment is one of the most destructive emotions that you can have in your body.  

I am able to give my time and money from a loving place (most of the time), but getting rid of resentment is a personal journey and a process.  When I say "no", I silently offer blessings and peace to the people requesting my help.  My blessings are positive gifts to them without any effort on my part.

Have a great day!!

Xo

Conni