I want you to take a deep breath and say one word aloud to yourself, “ say no.” That’s all you need to say.

“No” is such a simple word, but it is one that so many people have issues with. It can be hard to say “no”, particularly in our world today where so many people put so many demands on themselves. There are many people who think that saying “no” is a sign of weakness, of a lack of work ethic, or just being difficult.

But I’m here to tell you—it is not. And it is OK to say “no” when you need to. If you are someone who thinks you are going to get ahead by being a “yes” man, then its time to rethink your approach. 

Looking back, I bet there are more times that you regretted saying “yes” than when you regretted saying “no.” Saying “yes” to everything is not a sustainable way to live and it can take a serious toll of your mental, physical and spiritual health.  If you aren’t already sold on this idea of being able to say “no”, then take a look at some of my top reasons why its OK to start saying “no.” 

Not Everyone is Going to Like You

Sorry to all of the people pleasers out there, but there is no way to get everyone to always like you. And many times, the reasons that we tend to say “no” to people is because we are worried about what their opinion of us will be.

Well, unfortunately, no matter how hard you try and how often you say “yes”, you can’t control everyone’s opinion of you. You just can’t. So if you are saying “yes” just so someone looks favorably on you, then its time to stop.

You’re the Only One Who Knows Your Own Priorities 

You are the only person in the world who can really identify what your priorities are in life and what really is important to you. No one else can. If you’re not sure about something because you know deep down inside its not right for you, just say “no.”

No one else will be able to do this for you, you are the only one who can do it for yourself. So take the opportunity to listen to your gut and stand up to say “no” when it’s right for you.

At the End of the Day…You Don’t Owe Anyone Anything

While there are times you are going to have to say “yes” to things you don’t want to (such as assignments you agreed to do at work). It is important to remember, that you don’t actually owe anyone anything. You’re not obligated to always say “yes” to someone just because they are a friend, coworker or even your partner.

You need to remember your thoughts and feelings and not just the wants and desires of others. If you do, it will help you make better decisions for yourself in the long run. 

Remember Life Goes On

Sometimes the idea of saying “no” seems like it’s going to be completely devastating or earth shattering, but remember, life goes on. Saying “no” to one thing, likely isn’t going to make the world stop. Your life is in your control and you need to be able to know when to say “yes” and when to say “no.” 

And you need to remember, in most situations it isn’t life or death.

Take the pressure off yourself and you will find it is easier to say “no” than you thought, and easier to continue to make decisions that work for you. It can be hard to do, but if you just take a deep breath and a pause before you answer questions, you will be better off for it.

 

It’s Easier Than You Think 

The first time you are faced with the option of saying “no” and you take that opportunity to do it—you may be surprised to find how easy it was and how empowering it is. Many people don’t say “no” just because they’re scared. But I promise you, once you do it once, and put your feelings ahead of others, you will be shocked by how easy it really is. 

I want you to try and challenge yourself to start saying “no” more. Go ahead and try it, even if it’s for the smallest thing. Just say “no” and make the decision to do what is best for you, and I promise you, it will open more doors than you expect.