,

I had a few conversations this week about needing more time in the day. One of them was me having a conversation with myself. Please tell me, I am not the only one who has full-blown conversations with herself!

Today, let's talk about the power of saying "No!"

"No one runs your life unless you let them.

And you have more power than you think." -- Michael Hyatt

In our personal and professional lives, we often find ourselves in situations where we are asked to do things that we don't want to or don't have the time or capacity to do. However, we often say yes out of guilt or fear of missing out, which can lead to stress, burnout, and decreased productivity. Conversely, sometimes it is a matter of we have said yes, but our priorities have shifted.

Learning to say no is a powerful skill that can help us establish boundaries, prioritize our time and energy, and ultimately lead to a happier and more fulfilling life. Here are some of the reasons why saying no can be so empowering:

1. It frees up time for what matters most. When we say yes to everything, we spread ourselves too thin, our attention is divided. By saying no to things that are not essential, we focus on the things that matter most and give them the attention they deserve.
2. It helps us establish boundaries. Saying no is an excellent way to communicate our limits to others. When we say no, we are telling people that we value our time and energy and that we won't let others take advantage of us.
3. It reduces stress and prevents burnout. When we say yes to everything, we are constantly busy, and our stress levels skyrocket. Saying no allows us space to recharge.
4. It increases productivity and creativity. When we get bogged down with too many commitments, we lose focus on what matters instead of what is important.

I recently completed a large project. I do this project once a year. I forget how completely stressed I am by the time it is completed. I am putting a note in my tickler file for next year, to say NO!

Of course, saying no is not always easy. We don't want to offend or feel guilty. I hate to disappoint a client. But, it is not about being selfish, it is about taking care of ourselves.

Do you need some tips about saying no, gracefully? I am so glad you asked!

1. Be honest. When someone asks you to do something you really don't want to do or can't do, be honest and tell them. You build trust and respect in the relationship.
2. Offer an alternative. There might be a better way or a better person!
3. Don't apologize. I am so guilty of this. Have I mentioned I am a people pleaser? Thank the person for considering you and that you appreciate their request. Leave it there!

As with any skill, we have to practice and build that muscle. Focus on prioritizing your time, establish boundaries, reduce stress, increase productivity, AND leave room for creativity. If I don't have a creative outlet, I quickly become bored and grumpy.

You are not being selfish, it is an act of self-care.

I look forward to hearing your thoughts. I know this is Friday, but I didn't want to wait another week to get this information to you. You might need it this weekend!

Move forward with grit and grace!

Lisa

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Lisa Olinda

Olinda Services, Chief Chaos Whisperer, Blogger, and Podcaster

1-864-610-0369 | lisa@olindaservices.com | www.olindaservices.com