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The Power of Saying “No”

  • Writer: Jenn Everson
    Jenn Everson
  • Sep 25
  • 4 min read
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Have you ever said “yes” to something and immediately regretted it?

Maybe it was another work task, a social event, or someone asking for your time when you were already stretched thin.

If so, you're not alone — and you're not weak. You're just human.

Saying “no” can feel uncomfortable, especially if you're someone who wants to be helpful, supportive, or liked. But here’s the truth:

Every time you say “yes” to something, you’re saying “no” to something else — often your own peace, rest, or priorities.

Learning to say “no” is one of the most powerful forms of self-care you can practice.


But before we say "No", let's understand why we say "Yes"


Most people don’t overload themselves because they’re careless — they do it

because they care too much.


Here are a few reasons we tend to overcommit:

  • Fear of disappointing others

  • Worry about being seen as selfish or lazy

  • Guilt or feeling obligated

  • Trying to “do it all” or prove our worth


But constantly putting others’ needs before your own leads to burnout, resentment, and exhaustion — and that helps no one.


When we don't say "no" enough, it will not only physically drain you, but mentally and emotionally too. Ever catch yourself saying, "I don't want to be a yelling mom", but you tend to be because you're overloaded, and you don't have the capacity to sort through the emotions.


It is exhausting to feel like you're constantly behind, which spirals into thoughts of not feeling "good enough". Because sometimes we place our value on how much we can juggle, but let's be real, a professional juggler has to put the balls down at some point to rest also.


We're not talking about just neglecting rest, but also what YOU want in life.

Are you doing things that say, "This is ME!" each day?

Probably not.. you're probably taking care of everyone else and

not attending to your own goals, needs, and desires.

If so, that will eventually turn into resentment. You start judging everyone else

for all that they can do and that you're not enjoying yourself.


Sound familiar?

Yes, I feel all of this in my soul too - because you're not alone!


The thing is, we don't realize how much value is in saying "no".

It is not just helpful to us but can also be beneficial for others.

If we say no to something, it is because we are being completely honest

with ourselves - and with them. Why would you want to be a part of something halfway?

Don't you want to get the full experience or for them to get the full version of you?

How are you giving your full self to the experience when your energy is half full?


When you're rested, not pressured, stressed for time or stretched thin,

your emotions are not driving your life. You are actually able to focus and gain clarity.

You're more fully in the moment and enjoying what you're doing.

No one enjoys things when they feel they have to be there.


Saying "no" is self-respect, and that is a power that you can possess.

If you remove the false guilt and regret, you will feel empowered

that you honored yourself in that moment.

You'll able to pour more into what is still left on your plate to do.


But I know, I know - guilt...


It punches you in the gut sometimes worse than the exhaustion itself.

So, how do combat it?


~ Language ~


Here are a few simple responses you can use:

  • “I’d love to help, but I don’t have the capacity right now.”

  • “Thanks for thinking of me, but I need to say no at this time.”

  • “That sounds great, but I’m fully booked.”

  • “I can’t commit to that, but I appreciate you asking.”


Here's what else you need to know - "No" is a complete sentence!

Yes, give them the respect of redirection, but you don't owe someone a full explanation.

Some people are not understanding of mental & emotional rest - so don't discourage yourself more by explaining it to close minded individuals.


Conclusion:


Saying “No” Is Saying “Yes” to Yourself

Saying “no” isn’t selfish — it’s self-honoring - it is self-full!

Remember, your time is valuable, your well-being matters and you’re not here to please everyone — you're here to live fully and well


You are not a bad person for protecting your peace.

You are not lazy for needing rest.

You are allowed to say “no” — especially when you’re overwhelmed.

Give yourself permission to stop overcommitting — and start choosing yourself.


If you feel there is a deeper cause to your overcommitment,

such as people pleasing, anxiety, etc.

You may want tot reach out to me, and see if any of my programs

may fit your needs to help you work through them.


My 4-week program focuses on mindset and strategy,

where my 6-week program consists of Holistic healing.

We can definitely discuss those further to see which fits best.

Fill out the form and find out, https://forms.gle/TeMZ9wgXy7xGAmPn7



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