A few months ago I watched this young lady on the British version of the X Factor belch out the words to this song (you don’t own me) with such power, emotion and attitude that she really pulled me in. She sounded convincing! Like she was really telling it to someone and telling it to their face! I was inwardly shouting ” you go girl!”.
I’ve been thinking about this recently. I’m normally a quiet, peace loving kind of girl but I’ve even been practising myself, to say it. No one owns you. And think! it doesn’t matter what they say and what they are in your life. Stand up for yourself! You can do it! This is one lemon that life will roll towards you! Show it who is boss.
Even though you’re my partner, you don’t own me
If you’re trapped in a relationship where you are treated like a second class citizen, it’s time to brave up and say the words. Say after me, YOU DON’T OWN ME! Many people are stuck staying with someone who is so physicality, emotionally or mentally abusive that they now see themselves as property, not being able to move on without their master. It does take a lot of courage but a lot of people have had the courage and have done it, therefore now living more happy, productive lives. If you are one such person, encourage a sister (or a brother for that matter) to let them know that it can be done.
You may have something to do with my wages, but you don’t own me
I know, this one too is difficult. We just carry on being abused and mistreated in the workplace because we think another job will be hard or impossible to find! Again, it may be difficult but not impossible. Start looking around at your options! Start preparing yourself for what you want to do. Take a leap of faith and be your own boss, start a blog, nothing is more rewarding than being your own boss. The point is, do not give anyone the power to feel like they own you. Just as you need the wages, they need the staff- it’s a two- way thing. Get up the courage to leave that job if it’s killing you slowly.
I may be younger than you but you don’t own me
Don’t you just hate it when an older brother or sister lord it over you just because they are older? I mean, who gave them that authority? They feel like any family related decision has to be made final by them, sometimes even without consulting the others. Sure, we do want to have a say. Allow us to use our God given right, after all, you don’t own me! Thanksgiving and other family celebrations doesn’t have to be hosted at your house all the time (well if you’re willing to do all the work and bear all the expense, it’s up to you!) I’d like to have a say in our parents care when they’re older and in the naming of my own kids and pets! Wouldn’t you?
You might be wondering if I have ever used this strategy before. My answer is yes, most definitely. I finally faced up to the horror of a job that I had and told it (and all those who had anything to do with it) you don’t own me! I left, resigned, gave it up! Of course I had to convince myself of the fact first but now I’m most content that I did! Hooray! I’m the boss of me.
Take charge of your life and be positive. Despite anxiety and other issues, it can be done. Give it a start and you will soon find that it’s easier and easier to do. Say it now, you, you don’t own me. Good!
xoxo
D says
Mmmmm I like the thoughts. And I am happy for you know u are healing from that stressful job situation,
Joleisa says
Thanks D. Life’s great when you can actually enjoy it!