This week, we have been working on Step 2 of my 10 Steps to Self-Care Challenge: “Say exactly what you mean.”
At first, that might sound simple. However, communicating honestly can be difficult, especially when we are accustomed to keeping the peace, avoiding uncomfortable conversations, or worrying about what other people might think.
Throughout this week, we have looked at this step from different directions. We talked about communicating our needs, being honest with ourselves, and recognizing what we really need before spending money.
Today, I want to have a little fun with it.
MEET THE “SAY EXACTLY WHAT YOU MEAN” CAT
I created a new Ree’s Life T-shirt inspired by this week’s self-care phrase.
The design features a wonderfully grumpy-looking cat with the words:
“Say Exactly What You Mean.”
When I saw the cat, I knew it worked.
There is something funny about a cat delivering this particular message. Cats don’t exactly have a reputation for pretending to like something when they don’t!
Still, underneath the humor is an important reminder.
CLEAR DOESN’T HAVE TO MEAN CRUEL
Saying exactly what you mean doesn’t permit us to be disrespectful.
Instead, healthy communication means learning how to express our feelings, needs, opinions, and boundaries clearly while still respecting other people.
You can say:
“I don’t want to do that.”
“I need some time to think.”
“I can’t take that on right now.”
“That hurt my feelings.”
“I need help.”
“I disagree.”
“I would rather do something different.”
Those statements don’t require a long explanation.
Sometimes we create added stress because we say yes when we mean no, remain silent when something bothers us, or expect someone else to figure out what we’re thinking.
Clear communication can remove part of that burden.
WEAR YOUR REMINDER
That is what I like about turning the 10 Steps to Self-Care into wearable messages.
The shirt can be funny, but it can also become a reminder.
Say what you mean.
Be kind.
Be clear.
Respect yourself.
Respect other people.
Then let the grumpy cat provide a little attitude for you!
THIS WEEK’S SELF-CARE CHECK-IN
As we get closer to the end of Week 2, think about your communication this week.
Did you say yes when you really wanted to say no?
Did you clearly ask for something you needed?
Did you express an opinion instead of automatically agreeing?
Did you communicate honestly with yourself?
You don’t have to master this in seven days. The purpose of this challenge is to become more aware of how we care for ourselves.
This weekend, continue practicing one simple habit:
Pause before you answer.
Think about what you actually mean.
Then say it with kindness and confidence.
And if you need a little inspiration, apparently we can take a lesson from a grumpy cat.
