“I am allowed TO SAY NO!”
Someone needed to read this post today.
Why?
Check the Affirmation card I randomly picked from its box this morning after writing this post yesterday evening. It was not the original image for the post, but the alignment speaks volumes.
In 2023, I read the book, “The Power of Saying No” by Vanessa Patrick, PhD. At the time I was coaching a client who was finding it difficult to say “No”. In fact, she called herself a “people pleaser”.
I found the book which I shared with her. It offers strategies to help individuals decline requests confidently and authentically.
One of the phrases from the book is “empowered refusal”. The author introduced it as a method of saying no that aligns with one’s identity and values. This approach enables individuals to decline requests without feeling guilt or inviting pushback.
What I have also learned is that the best decision-makers have mastered the art of saying no.
Every time you say “yes” to one thing, you’re saying “no” to something else.
Time, energy, focus – they’re all limited, and stretching yourself too thin doesn’t help anyone.
Many of my clients face this exact challenge. They’re juggling priorities, trying to keep everyone happy, and in the process, becoming u happy themselves.
And so here’s one piece of advice I offer: don’t prioritize your schedule, schedule your priorities.
Before committing to anything, ask yourself:
→ Does this align with my long-term goals?
→ Will this create a meaningful impact?
→ Am I saying yes out of obligation or strategy?
So, next time you’re faced with a Yes or No decision, repeat to yourself “I am allowed TO SAY NO!’
Remember also that: NO can sometimes be a complete sentence.
What’s one thing you’ve said no to recently, and how did it feel?
______
🌼Hi, I’m Daisy
If you’re ready to take charge of your career and make a real impact, send me a DM and let’s connect.
