Hello, dear questioner!
I just want to say, I think you're amazing for thinking about this and being so aware!
You were such a kind and thoughtful person, but I'm wondering, why didn't you get along with others?
I'd be more than happy to go through it with you, and I really hope it helps a little.
1. Take a moment to feel your emotions and remember to guard your boundaries.
You mentioned that in high school, your desk mate kept throwing her books on your desk. Even when the pile was so high that you couldn't write, you never complained to her. But she repaid you by telling others that you stole her books.
Now that you can look back, I'd love to know if you minded when she put the books on your desk at the time.
I'm just wondering, did you do it willingly?
I know it can be tough, but do you think you could find it in your heart to tell her how you feel?
If we feel like we're giving something when we do this, it's important to make it clear to her.
It's so easy to get caught up in other people's lives and forget to set our own boundaries. That's why things like her saying you stole her book happen.
We totally get it if you feel uncomfortable saying this.
We may think we're being kind and considerate, but others might see it as us not setting boundaries and unintentionally allowing others to do whatever they want.
So if you want to feel comfortable and have a good relationship with other people, it's really important to be able to set your own boundaries. That is:
Say yes when you mean yes, and say no when you mean no—but do it kindly.
If you don't want to do something, it's okay to say no!
For example, you might want to think about not letting your tablemate put her books on your desk, just to be on the safe side!
I'm sure you have your reasons, but I just wanted to check in and see if you've thought about how your college friend's behavior is affecting your willingness to help her?
Even if there's a reason for others, it's so important to guard our own boundaries. For example, if a university classmate is ungrateful, we can distance ourselves from her to protect ourselves.
Or you show your attitude when she speaks ill of you.
You know, we always have a choice.
2. Learn to communicate consistently, my friend.
2. Learn to communicate consistently.
I'm here to help!
We all make mistakes. When we put ourselves in a bad position and show goodwill to others, but don't get the interpersonal relationship we expect, it's okay to take a step back and think about why we're doing this.
Could it be a little bit of flattery?
I'd love to know how you formed this pattern!
Of course, this has to do with our upbringing and our beliefs. We all have them!
The great news is that you're aware of this and realize that this doesn't lead to good relationships.
I just wanted to say congratulations on taking the most important step!
Satir suggests that when we're feeling stressed, we tend to fall into one of five communication modes:
And then there's appeasement.
Let's talk about blame.
Hyperrational
Interruptive
And finally, let's talk about consistent communication.
If you feel like you're being treated unfairly but don't push back, it's possible that you've been asking yourself to be kind to others.
I'd love to share a little saying with you:
Your kindness must have a sharp edge, my dear.
Being overly friendly may make others think you are weak and vulnerable, and they might even pass the buck to you, say bad things about you, etc.
Interpersonal communication is something we all learn as we go through life.
Satya is all about keeping the lines of communication open and honest.
It means learning to express your feelings and thoughts in a calm and gentle way when you're interacting with others.
We all have to deal with things that make us uncomfortable from time to time. It's how we handle them that matters!
Let's say, for instance, that you come across a landlord like this. You could say:
If I don't pay you rent, I'll often invite you to dinner. Would you like that?
I know it can be tough to decide between collecting the rent and inviting her to dinner.
Or, if you don't like her scolding you, you can also tell her, "I'm here to rent a room, and if you continue to disrespect me like this, I'm afraid I'll have to deduct a portion of the rent for every time you scold me."
(You can record the conversation to keep evidence, or if you really don't like such a landlord, you can find another place to rent. No problem at all!)
I'd highly, highly recommend Mr. Huang Qituan's book, "How Others Treat You Is What You Teach Them." It's a great read!
Sometimes, if we just let things be, it can encourage others to take advantage of us.
If you keep this up for too long, it might start to make you feel a bit uncomfortable.
All relationships are conspiracies, and it's so important to guard your bottom line from the very beginning.
A healthy relationship is all about mutual respect and equal rights, and taking care of each other's emotions and needs.
And no matter how bad the other person is, we can only change ourselves, my dear.
Take all the time you need, my dear.
I really want to praise you for your kindness and comfort. I hope you can grow your own strength, guard your own boundaries, and take care of yourself.
Then, no matter who you meet, you can deal with them calmly, my dear.
Kindness is something that should be given to those who deserve it.
I really hope things work out for you!
I love you, world! And I love you too, my dear friend!
Comments
I can relate to feeling misunderstood in relationships. It's tough when you try to be kind and it backfires. Maybe setting clearer boundaries could help prevent misunderstandings like with W and her belongings. Also, it's important to choose who you trust and open up to carefully.
It sounds like you've been through a lot with these people. Sometimes no matter how friendly we are, others might not respond in the same way. In situations like with your landlord, it might be worth having an open conversation about expectations and fairness.
Friendship should be built on mutual respect and understanding. It's disheartening when someone takes advantage of your kindness or twists things around, as with your university classmate. Surrounding yourself with supportive people who appreciate you for who you are can make all the difference.