Give an Inch and They’ll Take a Mile…
Give an inch and they’ll take a mile. We have all perhaps experienced situation in life where you helped a friend, family member or perhaps went out of your way for a colleague who then began to expect this from you with no return or thanks. It can be frustrating and time consuming, leaving you feeling powerless or disrespected. It happens…but we are here to tell you to put a stop to it! Be mindful of who you are giving your inches to!
At some point in most peoples lives, we have experienced people taking advantage of them, especially of their good nature!
For example…
Sometimes whilst editing a video, I like to sit upstairs on the bed with peace and quiet. Nala will sit and look at me with her puppy dog eyes and I’ll give in and let her sit next to me on the bed! Sometimes I’ll go out in the afternoon and when I arrive home I can hear thud from upstairs and realise she’s been on the bed. Or I’ll walk up the stairs and she’s fast asleep curled up on the bed! So a prime example of giving her an inch and she’s taken a mile!
Similar example…
Ive had a similar situation with Tilli where I’ll let her have a cuddle on the sofa, however I don’t want her to be on the sofa unless she is invited up. However, you have to think about what message you are giving? Are you giving them the message that they can take a mile! They might not mean bad by it, but if you are giving them an inch, they will more often than not find a way to take advantage.
Some homework for you…
We would like you to analyse who you are giving your inches to!! Who are you giving your time to that you feel are taking a mile? Who do you feel you have given your time to and they don’t appear to appreciate it?
You are the one who is in control of your time. It doesn’t matter what you think you are obligated to do because you have been doing it for a long time. If the person is not appreciating what you are doing, then put a stop to it! Obviously there are 2 ways of doing things. We always advice you too try the nice route first! Try to reason with them or just explain the way you are feeling about the situation.
Remember, be mindful of who you Gove your inches to!!