Saying No

Invest in yourself

A lot of content is now geared toward the holidays and this is no different. Often this time of year we have more to do because it comes with the territory around the holidays. But it’s important to understand that we don’t have to be superheroes or try to make everyone happy.

That two letter word can save our sanity, prevent resentments, and make life easier. It can also make us feel guilty. Ask yourself honestly if you have the time/energy/brain space/emotional reserves/etc to adequately meet the request? Of course, so much depends on the person asking, the relationship you have, and the circumstances but be selective. Your time and wellbeing are just as important as someone else’s.

Such a small word can be so hard to say. There’s a saying in the therapy/self-help world that ‘no’ is a complete sentence. It is. You don’t have to justify or explain but it can help soften the blow for everyone involved. Whether it’s, ‘I wish I could but I’m sorry. I just can’t.’ Or, ‘Maybe another time’. Stay strong. Compromise is a good thing but it can also be a slippery slope that leads to the above mentioned ‘resentment’. If we say ‘yes’ when we really want to say ‘no’, we get mad at ourselves and that bleeds into other areas of our life: short temper, impatience, anxiety. You get the picture. Be selective. The holidays are for everyone to enjoy, including you. And if that means saying ‘no’ to some things or some people, it’s okay. Let go of the guilt so you can truly enjoy the holiday season.