In today's Dear Annie column, a frustrated reader has trouble saying no, even though they have neither the time nor energy to deal with a steady stream of requests from a friend.
Annie advises today's reader to learn to say no. It may be awkward at first, but either her friend will learn to respect her answer or there are bigger problems in the friendship.
Last week, my good friend “Jess” called me at 6 a.m. to ask if I could drive her to an appointment that same morning, even though I had to be at work by 8. This kind of last-minute favor is becoming a pattern. I’ve been tempted to say no, but she will always guilt me with something like, “You’re the only one I can count on!”
I really do value our friendship, but I feel drained by her constant needs. How can I let her know I need some firmer boundaries without making her feel like I’m abandoning her? -- Feeling DrainedTell her you want to be there for her, but you simply don’t have the time or energy to drop everything at a moment’s notice. It might be awkward at first, but a true friend will respect your limits.
Annie-Lane @Exmeter @Mrose @Lll
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