You need to have respect for yourself and the value of your time before anyone else will.

I learned this painful lesson from a manager that I had early on in my career. I was an up and coming management trainee and always eager to take on additional projects and responsibilities. I would often be at the office by 7am and work until 7pm.  

I decided that I wanted to start playing in a volleyball league after work and was excited to meet new people, have fun and create a life outside of the office. My manager was used to me always being available for meetings after 5pm and for being available at a moments notice.

The first few weeks, I cancelled my volleyball due to him calling last minute meetings and I started to resent him and his demands. After a few weeks, I finally realized I had the ability to say, no I can’t meet at 6pm but I am available tomorrow at 8am. 

I remember being shocked when he said okay that time works for me!!!

He continued to ask me for 6pm meetings and I continued to decline that time but always offered alternative times. I don’t know who needs to hear this but I repeat …..

“You need to have respect for yourself and the value of your time before anyone else will.” - Linda Baker

Looking for more inspiration? Read more on Gratitude, Asking for Help, Intentions vs. Resolutions, Happiness and 6 Prompts for a Great Week.