In a power exchange context (D/s, M/s) it can be hard for a sub or slave to say “no” when they want to please their Top/Dom/Master/Mistress. Be aware of this potential issue if you are in a power exchange dynamic; talk about it with your partner beforehand. Command them to tell you if they sense an issue that could result in injury, physical or otherwise. Reassure them that telling you is the right thing and is required. Make it clear that you care more about them than you do about one little scene.

If a person has difficulty saying “no,” it can be helpful to set up words or signals that feel easier or safer to say. More on this in Safe Words/Gestures/Actions.