Consent is one of the most important things to understand when it comes to healthy relationships and interactions. It’s not complicated, but many people still get it wrong. So, let’s break it down into six simple, must-know rules about consent.
- It Is okay to say yes
Yes means yes! If you want to do something and feel comfortable, confident, and excited about it, saying yes is perfectly okay. Consent isn’t just about saying no—it’s also about the freedom to say yes when you genuinely want to. However, your yes should come from your own choice, not from pressure, fear, or coercion. A real yes is enthusiastic, clear, and freely given.
- It Is okay to change your mind
You agreed at first, but now you’re not sure? That’s fine! Consent isn’t a contract—it’s an ongoing conversation. You are never locked into a decision just because you said yes at the beginning. If at any point you feel uncomfortable or simply change your mind, you have every right to stop. A good partner will respect that, no questions asked.
- It Is never too late to change your mind
Even if things have already started, you can still decide to stop. Consent is not a one-time approval that lasts forever—it can be withdrawn at any time. If someone pressures you by saying, “But we’ve already started,” that’s a red flag. The moment you feel uncomfortable or no longer want to continue, you can and should stop.
- It is not okay to force someone into something they do not want
This should be obvious, yet some people still don’t get it. If someone is hesitant, unsure, or saying no, you cannot push them into changing their mind. No amount of begging, guilt-tripping, or convincing makes it okay. True consent is given freely, without fear or pressure. If you have to force or manipulate someone into saying yes, it’s not real consent—it’s coercion.
- It is not okay to harass people
Harassment isn’t just physical—it can also be verbal or emotional. If someone says no, stop asking. If someone is uncomfortable, stop what you’re doing. Following, texting obsessively, making someone feel unsafe, or repeatedly making unwanted advances is harassment. Consent is about respect, and harassing someone shows the opposite.
- It is okay to say no even if others are saying yes
Just because your friends are doing something doesn’t mean you have to. Consent is personal, and what works for someone else doesn’t have to work for you. Peer pressure is real, but your boundaries and comfort matter more than fitting in. If you don’t want to do something, say no—and if someone tries to shame you for it, that’s their problem, not yours.
The bottom line is, consent is everything. Consent isn’t complicated: it’s about mutual respect and clear communication. A good rule to follow is this—if it’s not an enthusiastic and clear yes, then it’s a no. No guessing, no assuming, no pushing. When in doubt, ask, listen, and respect the answer.
Understanding consent doesn’t just make you a better partner; it makes you a better person. So, whether it’s a relationship, a date, or even a simple hug, always ask, respect the response, and remember—everyone has the right to feel safe and comfortable. Consent is key, and now you have the knowledge to get it right every time.
