"If you allow men to use you for your own purposes, they will use you for theirs."

Let’s break this down in simple terms. The core idea here is that if you let people manipulate or take advantage of you, they’re going to do it for their own benefit, not yours. It's a bit like giving someone an inch and them taking a mile.

This idea has been around in various forms for ages. Think back to ancient times or even just a few decades ago—people have always had to be wary of others trying to exploit them. Maybe it was said as a warning, a kind of heads-up to be cautious about who you let into your life and how much you trust them.

Now, let’s say you're working at a new job. You’re eager to impress and show that you’re a team player. Your boss starts asking for little favors—staying late “just this once” or covering for someone who didn’t show up. You think, “No big deal, I’ll just help out this time.” But then it keeps happening. Before you know it, you’re the go-to person for all the extra work no one else wants to do. Your boss isn’t asking you because they appreciate you; they’re doing it because you’ve shown that you won’t say no.

So, what do you do to apply this wisdom in real life? First off, set clear boundaries. It's okay to say no sometimes. You’ve got to protect your own time and energy. This doesn’t mean you should never help out, but be aware of when it’s becoming a pattern. Also, recognize your value—don’t let others make you feel like you owe them everything. You’re there to work, but you’re not there to be used.

Imagine you’re at a party. You bump into an old friend who you haven’t seen in years. They’re super friendly and chatty, and you’re having a great time catching up. But then, they drop a hint about needing a ride home because their car broke down. You think, “Sure, I can do that, it’s not far out of my way.” A week later, they call you up again, asking for another favor. This time it’s to help them move. The favors keep piling up, and you realize they’re only reaching out when they need something.

In this scenario, it’s clear the friend is using your kindness for their own benefit. It’s a tough spot, but you need to address it. Maybe you say something like, “Hey, I’m happy to help sometimes, but I’ve got a lot on my plate too.” It’s all about balance.

We’ve all been there. We want to be helpful; we want to be liked. But at what cost? Think about your well-being. You’re not just there to serve others’ purposes. You’ve got your own life to live, your own goals to chase. Be mindful of this—it’s about respect, both for yourself and from others.

So next time you’re in a situation where someone’s asking for a favor, take a moment. Ask yourself: Are they asking because they appreciate you, or are they just looking out for themselves? It’s a fine line, but learning to recognize it can make all the difference. And remember, it’s okay to put yourself first sometimes. You’re worth it.