“Power is never taken. Power is only ever given away”. —Jon Michail
Phase 1: Activation
I’ve silenced and suppressed my feelings around an old relationship to keep the peace. Never speaking up when my lines have been crossed. Copping it on the chin. Letting disrespect slide. And the older I get, the more disappointed I become. Ultimately, I am disappointed in myself. How have I tolerated such nonsense for so long and never stood my ground? To save an old relationship whilst eating piles of dirt makes no sense at all. And I have no one else to blame.
Phase 2: Identification
Self-Identity:
Loyal Friend
Old Mate
Door Mat
Others-Identity:
Rude Dog
Fake Mate
Slippery Snake
Phase 3: Declaration
Feelings:
Anger
Resentment
Nauseous
Non-Feelings:
Appreciation
Results:
Poor friendship
Low trust
Arm’s Length Contact
Non-Results:
Safe boundary
Lines of respect
Mutual understanding
Actions:
Silencing upset
Suppressing truth
Avoiding conflict
Non-Actions:
Standing up
Defending myself
Speaking out
Being:
Soft
Timid
Non-Beings:
Vocal
Stern
Responsive
Phase 4: Creation
New Possibility:
Strength
New Identity:
Self Defender