Saying “no” can feel awkward. Like, cringe and spiral for three hours awkward. But here’s the truth no one tells us enough: saying no is a radical act of self-care.
So many of us were taught to be agreeable, helpful, and easygoing. But when your calendar is full, your energy is drained, and you’re running on caffeine and people-pleasing… that’s not kindness. That’s burnout waiting to happen.
Saying no doesn’t make you mean or selfish. It makes you someone who honors your own time, energy, and worth. And babe, that’s powerful.
There was a time when I kept getting approached for freelance work—little side projects I would’ve normally said yes to in a heartbeat. But I was already pouring so much of myself into my 9–5, and by the time the weekend rolled around, I was running on empty. My evenings and days off started to feel off-limits, like sacred space I needed to protect. Time to rest. Time to hang with Ollie and Boots. Time for myself.
Once I set that boundary, I stuck to it—and I turned every offer down. Not because I didn’t care. But because I did… about me. And the world didn’t fall apart. If anything, it finally started to feel a little more balanced.
No to the event that doesn’t spark joy.
No to the favor that stretches you too thin.
No to the pressure to be everything for everyone.
Every time you say no to something that doesn’t serve you, you’re saying yes to something that does—your rest, your creativity, your joy, your sanity.
Here’s your reminder:
You don’t need a long explanation.
You don’t need to feel guilty.
You don’t need to apologize for taking care of yourself.
A simple “No, thank you” or “That doesn’t work for me” is enough. Full sentence. Period.
And if you need help staying grounded in your intentions? Try writing out your boundaries in one of our Good Things notebooks. Visual reminders = game changer.
You’re allowed to take up space. You’re allowed to say no. You’re allowed to protect your peace.
✨ Good boundaries create a good life. ✨
So next time your gut says “ugh” instead of “yay”—listen. That’s your inner wisdom waving a little red flag, and she deserves to be heard.
What’s one thing you’re saying no to this week? Comment below—I’m cheering you on.
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