Conversation 24

Finding Freedom in No

Saying no to somebody when we’re used to saying yes, can be challenging because of our fear of rejection.

Many of us, from childhood on, were taught that saying yes is right and saying no is wrong. We learned that acceding to demands allowed us to avoid conflict and criticism, please people, earn praise, and prove that we care for the important people in our lives. Yet the right to say no is indelibly intertwined with the ability to make choices. When we sense we are limited in our options, and compelled to say yes even when doing so is not in our interests, we are effectively robbed of our ability to choose. Growing out of this tendency to say yes even when we desperately want to say no can be challenging because we suspect that others will reject us for our assertiveness. But the reward we receive when facing this challenge is true freedom of choice.

When others ask you to take on work or do favors, consider their requests carefully. If you feel pressed to say yes, consider whether you are acquiescing out of a desire for approval or to stave off disapproval. Remind yourself often that the ability to say no is an important aspect of well-being, as it is an indication that you understand the true value of your energy, talents, and time. As you learn to articulate your personal power by saying no, you may feel compelled to explore the myriad consequences of the word by responding negatively to many or most of the requests put to you. The word “no” may even become your default response for some time. When you see that life moves forward without interruption, you will grow more comfortable saying no and will resume making decisions from a point of balance.

There is nothing inherently wrong with acceding to the requests others make of you, provided these requests do not infringe upon your health or your happiness. Keep in mind, it is only when you feel you have the legitimate right to say no that you can say yes with utmost certainty, sincerity, and enthusiasm. While saying yes almost always has a cost, you can feel good about offering your agreement when your reasons for doing so are rooted in your individual values and your appreciation for the appeal before you.

@kittengirl,

Good morning in California Kitten wishing you a wonderful May. 🎈🎈

@shoelady60,

Good afternoon in the ‘burgh. Hey welcome to May and I hope this is a great month
for you. 😎🎈

Enjoy your day and sending sweet hugs to you and Jake. 💕😘

Poppy is doing fine.

@taci,

Good morning in S. California. Wishing you a great first day of May. 😎🎈

If you see this sight along the way Happy Trails To You. 🎶🎶

@oodiebom,

Good afternoon in Florida. OZ is alright today we are in the 60’s bit cloudy.

I am fine with that. My heart still goes out to your husband’s room mate.
May he RIP.

Oodie you had me chuckling at ways to get good food to your husband.

I hope the Rehab can work this out. Wishing you a wonderful May. 🎈😎

Let me know how your day goes and I hope it’s all good.

@xango,

Wishing you a healthy and happy May. 😎🎈

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@loaf,

Good morning in your corner of the world. 🎈😎 Welcome to May.