Minor Ami - Knowing When to say No

If there is one lesson that I've taken away from this past week, it's been , it is totally acceptable to say No. Mind you this is coming from someone who suffers from a severe case of "Yes man" syndrome. I strive from serving others, it's something that i've always loved and come naturally to me. If there is ever an opportunity to volunteer my time wither it be with children, adults, or my peers, nine out of ten times, you can count on me being there; serving others was and is still very much a moral in which I have been raised up by. Serving others has been part shaping me into the person I one day hope to become. Though "Yes man" syndrome, is dangerous to the fact that burnout is a long term effect, I would never trade any of the opportunities I have had. I have been so blessed with many once in a lifetime opportunities and  experience; for example, in the 7th grade, I had the chance to travel to our Nation's Capital with my class too see and watch history come alive. Despite my time in D.C was only a week, it was a week of memories I will never ever forget. To stand in the very house in which President Lincoln took some of this last breaths, to walk the paths of Arlington National Cemetery and watch the changing of the guard, to tour the White House and one of my greatest memories, exploring the Museum of Crime and Punishment, which led to the spark of my dream job, becoming an FBI Agent. Without these experience and opportunities, I wouldn't be half the person I am today. Having been able to serve as a Kindergarten Sunday School teacher for three years, though there were many Sundays where my patience was tested, I would never not have done that, it has showed and taught me just how fun and beautiful teaching and watching the next generation grow-up can be. The relationships in which I have gained and grown from my experience are phenomenal. To be surrounded by so many great mentors, who have each guided and and continue to guide me through life and its many obstacles.  Mentors in which I would have never met had I not taken a leap of faith and trusted myself in serving. It's not everyday one can call upon a FBI Agent or Employee, for advice, just to chat or even be asked for help. It is very rewarding to know that I have such an amazing team supporting me through my life, and the paths I choose to drive down. With all of the positives that come from serving, come some negatives. For me, seving is almost an addiction so to speak. I have let it consume my life to the point where I'm struggling to see every member of family daily. I have let it get to far and consume my life, and it's just not okay, I should be able to go home and sit on the couch and watch a show with my family, instead I have said 'Yes' to event after event in which is not running my life outside of school.

Today is the day I vow to make a change. Yes, I will still serve. Yes I will still say 'Yes'. However, I'm in the midst of finding the balance, and learning to say 'No'. This change is going to take time, and test me in many ways, physically, mentally and emotionally, now or never, there is not better time to make a change then right here, right now!



 - Ami Minor
3rd Degree Black Belt Candidate 2019  

Comments

  1. MicheleMay 18, 2019 at 4:18 PM

    You are so wise for a young woman. I'm am TOTALLY the same "Yes man" person. It's so hard to say no because you want to help but it is also so important to have the balance (I'm still learning this myself :). You foster resentment and regret when you don't honor yourself and your needs. It is important for your emotional, mental and physical health. Every time you say no to one thing, you’re saying yes to something else.

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