So, 2017 has just begun and looking back on the past year, there are many things I wish I could have changed with the way I interact with people. I’ve never been the person who holds others accountable for their actions, but after the way that played out in 2016, I’ve decided it is time for some change. For a lack of a better phrase, I’m no longer putting up with anyone’s bull****. To follow through with this resolution, I have created three new rules for me to practice with my relationships with others.
1. Be Assertive
A lot of times I found myself taking a step back and just accepting whatever response I got from someone instead of fighting for what I wanted. Knowing how much disappointment I felt from letting others take control, I have decided that when I want something I will be vocal about it with a strong conviction. This is not to be confused with being passive-aggressive, which is a coward’s way of getting what you want. The idea is to let others know that I am their equal, not someone they can take advantage of and certainly not as someone trying to take control.
2. Expect Respect
Sometimes I pass off certain friends’ behaviors as normal for the individual, even though I would not expect it from other people. I used phrases such as, “oh, that’s just how she is” or “it doesn’t bother me anymore, I’m used to it.” Even though I never reciprocated those same behaviors to the other person. And to be perfectly honest, I should not have put up with these behaviors the first time they happened. From now on, with anyone I interact with, I will expect to be treated with the same respect that I treat them and nothing less. And if I do get less, I will be vocal about it, because I do not have time for people to take me for granted.
3. Question Authority
During our college years, we are told that this is our first taste of freedom, but in reality we are surrounded by authority of different disciplines and levels. We join certain school organizations, classes and majors, all of which have some sort of authority to whom we listen to. In 2016, I followed through with the status quo of college, not giving a second thought to the orders, routine and advice I was given. I noticed that I was subjecting myself to decisions and activities I did not agree with or did not align with what I wanted. This year I plan to question the choices those in authority make when I find that something is off or not right. My purpose is to express opinions that otherwise would never be considered.
Hopefully you can find some value in these rules and use them in your own day-to-day interactions. 2017 will be a year of independence, strength and confidence among our generation. More than anything, after this past year, I think we should expect more from others and most of all, more from ourselves.
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