The Power of NO
Let’s talk about the word NO.
It’s one of the very first words we learn as toddlers. (Picture that little one who just discovered “no” and suddenly it’s their favorite word in the world!) But almost as quickly, we teach them it’s bad. Naughty. Difficult. Rebellious.
So is it any wonder that, as adults—especially as WOMEN—we feel like we can’t say it? Like NO is off-limits? That it makes us selfish, unhelpful, or a “bad person”? And if we do manage to say it, the GUILT can hit hard.
But what if NO is simply your inner self whispering frantically, “Hey! This isn’t working for me.”
What if NO is really a signal from your own guidance system? A way of standing up for what you need most?
Of course, this doesn’t mean letting kids skip seatbelts just because they said no. Safety boundaries matter. But maybe it does mean letting them have a good cry in the Target toy aisle while you breathe and hold space.
For most of us, that inner guidance system has been shushed so long it’s barely a whisper. But here’s the reframe:
Saying NO to something else often means saying YES to yourself. YES to more ease. YES to more freedom. YES to the life you actually want.
Imagine this:
A quiet afternoon with a cup of tea and no guilt about it.
Waking up rested because you said NO to a late-night movie.
A peaceful dinner where you’re truly present.
It starts small. The next time someone asks for something, pause. Instead of answering right away, say: “Let me think about it.” Take a couple of breaths and ask yourself: Does this work for me? Can I say YES without draining my time, energy, or sanity?
If the answer feels light and easy—say YES.
If it feels heavy and stressful—try this instead:
“That doesn’t work for me, but thanks for thinking of me.”
That one line opens space. Space for someone else to step in who really wants to. Space for YOU to finally say YES to the things that light you up—whether that’s a new hobby, time with your people, or simply rest.
Here’s the truth: a YES to yourself isn’t selfish. It’s vital. It’s what keeps you healthy, present, and able to give in ways that actually feel good.
So tell me—what would saying YES to yourself look like right now? Better yet… what would it feel like?
Take a moment to imagine it. Let it sink in. Notice the lightness, the ease, the possibility. That’s the power of honoring your NO—so you can finally live your best YES.
Until next time, shine bright ✨
