When You · Volume 03 · Printed companion
When You Keep Putting Yourself Last
You are in the right place. This is the companion page printed in the book: whenseries.com/companion/03/.
For the automatic yes, the request you struggle to answer, and the needs that slip to the bottom of the list. The aim is a choice that includes you, while respecting other people and real responsibilities.
Use the prompt in the book
Choose a chapter and a prompt title that fit today. The numbers on this page match the book.
Type the starting prompt into a text chat. Replace the square brackets with your own context. Leave out names, identifying details and private documents.
Choose a follow-up, correct an assumption, or ask for a smaller step. Stop when the conversation has done enough.
Lines worth keeping nearby:
- Ask me one question at a time.
- That is too general. Use the details I have given you.
- You are assuming something I have not said. Check with me first.
The book is complete on its own. All 64 conversations, follow-ups and stopping points are in the printed pages. This public page helps you use them. It does not stand in for the book.
Chapters in this book
- 01When yes comes before a choice
- 02When you need to answer a request
- 03When your needs stay unspoken
- 04When there is never room for you
- 05When being reliable means doing everything
- 06When relationships need clearer agreements
- 07When a boundary brings discomfort
- 08When you want this to become ordinary
Keep the choices yours
If a direct conversation would not be safe, support matters more than a polished script. The exercises do not ask you to win an argument or refuse every request.
These exercises support reflection and practical planning. They do not provide diagnosis, therapy, or individual legal, financial or medical advice. An AI can misunderstand, invent details or agree too readily. You can reject its suggestions. If there is immediate danger, or you feel unable to keep yourself safe, contact your local emergency or health service. In the UK, call 999 in an emergency. A prompt is not emergency support.
Public sources
These are independent organisations. They are not part of the When series, and a page here is not personal advice.
- NHS: help for domestic abuse
Public NHS page if you are not safe at home or in a relationship.
- NHS Every Mind Matters
Public NHS guidance on mental wellbeing. It is independent of this series.
Text and artwork were developed with AI assistance. Editorial responsibility remains with Shane Stanford. The series is independently produced and is not affiliated with or endorsed by OpenAI.