Setting your own limits

Make it a habit to say that you’ll check your schedule and let them know your decision at a later time. This gives you time to consider whether or not you can really fulfill their request. Plus, turning someone down can be easier over the phone or via text.

There are only so many hours in a day. You can either choose to spend your time marching efficiently through your list of requests, demands and to-do’s, or you can be more selective with your personal time. Does your time always seem to be in demand? Is there a chance you have a hard time saying “No” to others in need? It’s hardly a surprise—people with diabetes can be quite good at multi-tasking (think, checking blood sugar under the table while placing an order and maintaining a conversation with your friend).

So, why can’t you say “No” more often? Worried about others? Unfortunately, if you take on too many requests, you may decrease the stress of others but increase your own. That’s not good for anyone, but it’s even harder on people who are trying to manage their sugar levels and plan meals.

Here are some ways to help improve your comfort level with just saying “No”:

Delay before saying “Yes”

Don’t feel like you need an excuse

Practice this statement in front of the mirror: “I’m sorry, but I won’t be able to do that.” If you really feel like you need an excuse, try telling the person that you simply can’t fit their request into your schedule. What you decide to add to your schedule is up to you, and you don’t need to justify your decisions to anyone else. Just be firm and others will begin to understand.

Consider the total time commitment

A school committee that only meets once a week? Easy. Except that you may have to plan for a baby-sitter, make dinner ahead of time, take on additional tasks between meetings, arrange for transportation and distribute notices after the meeting. Suddenly, you’re not talking about only an hour of your time each week anymore.

Be realistic about consequences

Chances are, no one is going to be physically harmed or financially troubled if you don’t step in. So take a moment to analyse the situation. If you tell your supervisor that you can’t take on another assignment, what’s the worst that can happen? Will you lose your job, or will someone else be assigned the work? Having a candid conversation about your time limitations may be more productive than taking on responsibilities you can’t handle.

Take time out for yourself

How are you spending your personal time? Whether you’re watching television, exercising at the gym, reading a good book or looking for healthy recipes on the Internet, make sure that you enjoy the time you set aside for yourself.

Taking time out for your personal needs may help you better manage your diabetes and allow you to do the things that are important to you. By setting limits on your time you can devote more attention to your health—so you can be at your best for the things that really matter.