Half of the troubles of this life can be traced to saying yes too quickly and not saying no soon enough.”
— Josh Billings
I was always that person who said yes. I would organize the homeschool meet- ups, had lots of requests for adoption advice, numerous questions about health issues, and more. If anyone asked for help, I would say yes. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoyed it. It made me feel good to help. When I found myself prioritizing those requests over my self care, or worse, my time with my kids, I knew I had to set clear boundaries. And creating that balance in my life was such a relief. I also found that I didn’t lose friends but gained respect.
In today’s world, it can feel like saying “yes” to every request or constantly researching everything to learn more versus trusting yourself, is the only way to keep up. But overcommitting leaves you drained, stressed, and out of balance—and your health takes the hit.
The good news is that learning the art of saying “no” is one of the most powerful ways to reclaim your energy and amplify your health.
Why Saying “No” Is Essential for Your Health:
- It Reduces Your Stress: Overcommitting often leads to burnout. Saying “no” helps you create space for rest and recovery.
- It Helps You Focus on Your Priorities: Saying “no” to what doesn’t align with your values allows you to focus on what truly matters.
- It Protects Your Energy: By setting boundaries, you ensure your energy is spent on what nourishes you, not depletes you.
3 Steps to Master the Art of Saying “No”:
- Pause Before Committing: When someone asks for your time or energy, take a moment before responding. Ask yourself: Does this align with my goals and well-being?
- Be Honest and Kind: You don’t have to over explain or apologize. A simple, “Thank you for thinking of me, but I’m unable to commit to that right now” is enough.
- Practice Self-Care: Remember, saying “no” to others often means saying “yes” to yourself. Use that reclaimed time to rest, recharge, or focus on activities that bring you joy.
This Week’s Action Step: Identify one thing you’ve said “yes” to that doesn’t align with your priorities. Practice saying “no” and notice how it feels to honor your boundaries.
