No Is a Full Sentence.

Why are we so afraid to do what’s best for our peace of mind?  When we become adults, why do we feel the need to please everyone but ourselves? For most women, it’s not something that we think about. 

We are taught to be caretakers, hostesses, maternal, and comforting. We are taught to be the listening ear, to be consistently available, to be selfless, and to be a provider. In short, we’re taught to care for others before ourselves. We need to rewrite that. We need to care for ourselves and for others. 

Putting yourself first is the least you can do. You do not need to be there for other people every single time. Of course, being a good friend, sister, or mother means you should be there for others most of the time, but take a beat for yourself too. So, start getting comfortable with saying ‘no.’

Let me ask you this question. Has there ever been a time when you asked someone for something and they answered with no? If the answer is yes, then you need to do the same. You're human, it’s your right to say no. Stop feeling guilty for saying no when people often tell you no. You don’t need to be everything to everybody all the time. It’s not possible. It’s not good for your body physically or mentally. Your "no" is your peace. You need a break just like everyone else in this world. 

Start practicing saying "no" to people. Make yourself a priority and see how much happier you become. I challenge you to make it a goal to intentionally tell someone "no" once a week. As someone who is a people pleaser, this was hard for me to do at first. Once I got the hang of it and started living for myself and not others, my life got better. Say no and don’t feel guilty. Because I promise they will return the favor one day.