Explore the Power of saying a No | Time to Set Boundaries

NO

A word that is a complete sentence in itself, an answer, a boundary that you set for yourself, a tool of self-care, a habit to nurture self-love, and a lot more!

Basically, NO is a small word packed with loads of power.

Often seen in a negative light, this word has an invisible and invincible positive force driving it. Today we will be exploring the power of saying NO.

So let us first start by changing the lens through which see the word NO

What we think saying NO means…

Saying NO ≠ Disrespect

Saying NO ≠ Rudeness

Saying NO ≠ Hatred

Saying NO ≠ Insult

Saying NO ≠ Being Self-centered

Saying NO ≠ Cowardice

What saying NO really means…

Saying NO = Self-Respect

Saying NO = Self-Love

Saying NO = More Power

Saying NO = Knowing your Comfort

Saying NO = Setting Boundaries

Saying NO = Disrespect

NO it is the important little word with a giant impact

~Brian Beson

NOTE: Don’t go over the board and say no at every instance, under every situation! Know exactly when to say a NO

When to Say No

Of course, saying no at every occasion is not what we are suggesting to you. It is important for your NO to be well-placed for it to be powerful and your safeguard.

• When you face any sort of societal pressure that brings stress in your life. Say NO
• On occasions when you feel overwhelmed. Say NO
• If you face abuse in any form, at home, office, or school. Say NO
• Every time a situation or a person drains you. Say NO
• Whenever someone or something brings you discomfort. Say NO
• On days when you are just too busy to add a new task in your to-do list. Say NO
• When a task or situation doesn’t excite you but thoughts of FOMO are settling in. Say NO
• When you saying yes doesn’t make you happy. Say NO
• If your gut feeling says no just say NO.

“When you say yes to others, make sure you are not saying no to yourself.”

 ~Paulo Coelho

How to Learn to Say NO:

Saying no is definitely easy but sometimes it’s necessary and it is even more important to say it the right way. Here are some points to keep in mind that will help you to say NO and change your life:

1. Keep your NO Brief

Don’t run around the bushes! Be straight to the point and convey your no in a brief and not brusque manner. Don’t leave the other person wondering whether it was a yes or a no. Keep it direct!

Example: I won’t be able to join you over coffee today.

2. Cushion your NO with Kindness

Remember your NO shouldn’t sound rude. The best way to make it happen is, learn to say no with words of kindness. This way neither will you be pointed out as a rude person, nor the other person will take rejection to his heart. So, use a few good words with no to make it more powerful.

Example: Wow that is so thoughtful of you to count me in your coffee plan! But, I am afraid I won’t be able to make it. But, thanks for asking.

3. Offer an Alternative with your NO

If you are saying NO for a task where you don’t want to invest your time and efforts, trade it off with something else. This way you will be still helping the other person but at your convenience and terms. You don’t always have to offer a plan B, but when possible just go for it (it is a kinder approach).

Example: Hey, I can’t join you for coffee this evening. How about having lunch together?

4. Support your NO with Reasons

Sometimes you really don’t have a plan B to offer! But to make sure that your NO is still considered and valued, support it with honest reasons. It is a kind gesture to let the other person know why you are not up for a particular thing.

Example: Mate, I won’t be able to join you for coffee this evening. I have guests coming over or I have a deadline to hit. (Be Honest)

PS: Don’t forget to be polite.

Half of the troubles of this life can be traced to saying yes too quickly and not saying no soon enough

~Josh Billings

Benefits of Saying NO:

Now that you know everything about implementing power word NO let us quickly explore the power of saying NO

1. Makes you more productive

By saying NO to particular tasks, people, and occasions, you will be better able to give undivided attention to yourself and your work. This will also free your mind and let it focus on thoughts and ideas that really matter.

2. Improves the quality of your relationship

The power of saying NO helps you declutter your schedule, slow things down, and prioritize your relationship. As you have more time, you can easily choose to spend it with the ones you care for (without any guilt following).

3. Makes you experience freedom

By saying NO you will be able to come out of the feeling of being trapped, guilty, and resentful. In fact, it will make you feel free and empowered.

4. Lets you enjoy “me” time

Well you might be able to take some time out of your day for yourself but, how often this time is wholesome? Well, if you start saying NO you will be able to explore what you really want and rejuvenate your soul altogether.

5. Enhances your mental wellness

Saying Yes often brings unnecessary stress and anxiety which can be easily washed up by simply saying NO! This will improve your mental wellness altogether.

6. Increases your family time

Of course when you are saying NO you are freeing yourself from any obligation thus improving your time schedule. You can enjoy this time with your family without being overcommitted to other things.

7. Allows you to set boundaries

Setting boundaries is important to have a healthy relationship with self and others. Saying NO gives us this power by freeing up our time and allowing us to focus on the pursuits that truly excites and energizes you.

It is only by saying NO that you can concentrate on the things that are really important.

~Steve Jobs

Now you are all set to say no and change your life! Let the power of saying no bring you the peace you crave for and happiness that you deserve.

Just say NO!

Don’t forget to share how the power of saying no helped you in your personal life!

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