5 Reasons For Saying No

Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to take a day trip with my blogging buddies. Unfortunately, it was my only day to rest and as much as I wanted to hang out and bond, I knew if I decided to go it would derail me for the entire week.

A typical Sunday for me is to sleep in, go to Orange Theory, meal prep, blog and clean. I do tend to feel down and out when I am overly isolated but to be honest, most weekends are spent staying in and catching up on my entrepreneurial efforts and gearing up for the upcoming week. After deciding to stay home, I was able to accomplish all of the things and have clarity on personal stuff too.

Since the beginning of the year, I have been saying no more often than saying yes, especially when it comes to blogging related activities. I no longer have the desire to spend time and energy on doing things that don’t bring me joy or don’t really benefit me in a way that I find valuable. This includes events, brand collaborations, and everything in between.

I know that saying no can be harmful at times but it does have its benefits. So be sure to find a healthy balance where you aren’t completely isolating yourself from everyone and everything. On the flip side, saying yes can also be just as powerful and open up an abundance of opportunities. Much like Shonda Rimes discovered in the Year of Yes. But for the purpose of today’s post I am focusing on saying no.

Being responsible is part of growing up (or as we say “adulting.”) The idea is simple enough but often hard to commit to. Taking time for yourself will allow you to have more time and energy for those you love and the things that bring you happiness.

Saying no is another form of self-care and putting yourself first. “You have to love yourself before you can be loved.” Saying no will allow you to avoid burn out and procrastination for the stuff that really matters.

5 Reasons for Saying No

1. Your time is valuable. As mentioned previously, I no longer spend time doing things that don’t add value to my life. It goes hand-in-hand with knowing your self-worth and having a strong sense of self. This doesn’t mean that you have to be selfish and not take time for others. However, if you find yourself sacrificing your time and feeling stressed, then it’s a signal to take a step back. In the case of special occasions (weddings, baby showers, unexpected events) you can plan ahead or find time for things that are important, but when it comes to your day-to-day give yourself a break and be selective. Your mind and body will love you in the end!
2. You’re a badass. Don’t give in to people who can’t take no for an answer. Be brave and hold your ground. You will be grateful later.
3. There are only so many hours in a day. Don’t tell others you’ll think about it or it’s a possibility when you’ve already decided you don’t want to. It will only make thing less frustrating and confusing to the receiver and make you less stressed about saying no later.
4. Saying no is like saying yes. When you say no to one thing you allow room to say yes to something else. If you really want to say yes but can’t, offer to do something on another day or in the near future.
5. If it’s not a hell yes, it’s a no. Unless it’s something that can benefit you (working out, etc.), don’t give an explanation unless you want to. Don’t give an excuse on why you can’t, just say no. It’s your prerogative so just do you!

What tips do you have for saying no? Share in the comments below.

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Dress: J.Jill c/o | Shoes: J.Jill c/o | Necklace: Lace & Pearls Jewelry | Bracelet: Lace & Pearls Jewelry | Purse: Marc by Marc Jacobs (similar) | Lipstick: Tom Ford c/o

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Photography: Nicholas Mercado