Scared of saying "NO"

[BenC55]

I think this is a form of social anxiety. Like the title says, I'm scared of saying No to peolple and its interfering with my life. I'm putting my own dreams and goals on hold to please my friends and family. For example, all my friends want to do is play on the PlayStation and play things like Warhammer. I used to love doing these things but as I've grown older these things are of no interest to me anymore. I'm scared of telling my friends that I don't want to play games anymore, also, they keep planning holidays and weekends away. That's all fine but I'm at an age where I want to be thinking about getting my own home and starting a family (I'm 26). This fear of saying No also happens at work and with my family. Any advice on how to deal with this?

Sorry about the long post guys

[annemieke87]

Hi BenC55. I am sorry to read that you have trouble saying no and that it limits you reaching out to your life goals. I keep telling people to go see a doctor and ask for a psychologist. Ask treatment for your social anxiety, especially in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy you will learn how to deal with social anxiety. We know that most people with social anxiety are often very introvert, which causes even more stress and anxiety. In CBT you will learn how to move this focus from yourself to the outside world. This can help you to reduce the tension you are feeling. And in your case, helping you to say no to other people so you can move on with your life.

[Kirk]

If you don't know anyone you can talk to about this such as a close friend or family member, than I would consider
a mental health professional, self help books, etc., to guide you to overcoming this fear of saying no.