Hi ,

I've gotten really good at saying "no." But that wasn't always the case. As a recovering teacher's pet, goodie-two-shoes, people pleaser, I literally had to have my therapist help me realize that constantly saying "yes" when I wanted to say "no" was just me reverting back to my elementary school self. And it only left me angry, worn TF out, depleted, resentful, and feeling like no one cared about me.

She helped me realize that it was okay to say no. She showed me how to stand up for myself... like she literally made me send a stern text to someone I held in very high regard, and sending it scared me so much that I began to cry. That was elementary school Patrice fighting to come back out.

But I needed to let her go, because I'm not a little girl anymore. I'm a woman with three kids, a very full life, and a limited capacity that can't be overextended to or by everyone else.

The Pause:

Make a list of the things you hate doing but do anyway. Then, decide on the one thing you won't do this week and figure out how to remove it from your life, for good.

My Recommendation:

If laundry is your "no," check out Happy Nest. I started using this laundry service about three years ago and it's been a game changer. They pick your clothes up, wash them to your preferences, fold them, and drop them back at your door the next day. You can save on your first pickup by clicking here. (I do earn a commission on this.)

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Saying "no" isn't something you just start doing.

It's a mindset shift, and maybe this email or my content helps light the spark

that causes the change.

With love,

Patrice💛

PS: thanks so much for being part of this community. if these emails are helping you, please forward them to another mom who could use the reminder to pause.