Why You Sometimes Need to Say No

Sometimes, you just need to say no. Now, I don’t know about you, but saying “no” is one of the hardest things for me to do. I tend to be a people pleaser and I often agree to things when I shouldn’t. I end up taking on WAY too many things which is never a good idea.

So, I’m working on it. I’m taking breaks and I am saying “no”. Even to things that I might really want to do.

Why You Need to Say No

I stumbled across this Steve Job quote on Pinterest and I knew that it was perfect for today’s post.

When you say “no” you create space in your life and that can be so freeing. There are so many things that I want to do in my life. Of course I want to do them all right now.

Buuuttt I’ve come to realize that I need to say no. Whether it’s saying no to taking another blogging workshop, course, or webinar. Or signing up for a Mindfulness seminar. Or doing something that sounds super fun with my family or friends.

Let me tell you, it is HARD!!

I have some amazing friends and they like to invite me to do some really cool things. However, I can only do a limited number of things in a week. I still get tired really quickly plus I get regular migraines. I’ve had to figure out (the hard way) what kinds of things are most likely to give me a migraine – and avoid them.

By saying no, I can focus on my practicum and taking care of my health. I can also slowly work my way through my ever expanding To-Do list.

Now, having a social life is still important. So how can you make sure you meet all of your needs?

3 ways to focus on what matters most

1. Create a schedule: I know, this sounds pretty boring. With a schedule, either written down or on your phone (I do both) you can figure out where and when you have free time. I usually have at least one social engagement (family or friends) a week. Depending on what it is, that might be all that I can manage. Finding a week that isn’t as filled with deadlines gives me the freedom to go out without worrying and stressing over getting things done.
2. Mindfulness meditation: Mindfulness is all about being in the moment. Being fully present in whatever you are doing. Mindfulness helps you to create space between a stimulus and a response. The stimulus could be almost anything, something stressful or even just an invitation to do something. With regular mindfulness practice the space you create can help you to know when to say no and how to focus on what matters most.
3. Prioritize: Figure out what matter most. This can change moment to moment. Take last night for example. What mattered most to me was watching the Jays game. Especially in the 10th inning. I set the laptop down and gave the tv my full and undivided attention. Usually getting my blog post written or focusing on school work would be more important but life is all about balance. 😉

Saying no and choosing to focus on what matters most. Challenging for sure but definitely doable.

Charlene xoxo