Don’t Let Others Take Advantage Of You
Is there such a thing as being too nice? One would think not, but sadly, there are times when that may be the case. It would natural to think that if you treat people nicely they will want to respond in kind. Unfortunately, that doesn’t always happen. When you are nice or kind to someone who is unused to it or is emotionally damaged in some way, they may see it as a signal that you are weak. They may try to take advantage of you if they see an opening. Your gesture of good will may mean to them that you are less likely to stand up for yourself. Let’s say that you do something nice for someone without expecting something in return. Not long after that person may start asking you for favors. Instead of seeing your act of kindness as something to be appreciated and reciprocated, they see it in a selfish way. They will continue their requests and it will likely escalate until they become unreasonable. When you finally do say no, you may feel guilty because you have agreed to so much before. When you are nice, some damaged people can feel like they have license to take your time and possessions as they please. They think you’ll never stand up for yourself, so they have no reason not to and you will never defend yourself in a fight. You may have been taught to “do unto others as you would have them do unto you,” but not everyone subscribes to this philosophy. Sometimes being nice just makes you a target of those who find it easier not to be. Being nice to people is a definitely a good thing, but it pays to protect yourself. Go ahead and test the waters. Be nice but don’t go all out for someone unless you’re pretty sure you know how they will respond to it. If you see signs that the recipient is testing your kindness, be sure to assert yourself so they know that you can’t be taken advantage of. Don’t think you always have to be nice. Recognize that in some situations it isn’t necessary or won’t be appreciated. It can even cost you in the long run, so think about who you want to extend your kindness to. Besides relationship advice, the writer additionally regularly pens articles on diadora kids soccer shoes and pink soccer socks.
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