One of the most rewarding things we can do in our lives can also be one of the most difficult – saying no. Have you ever agreed to do something because you didn’t want to upset or let down the person asking only to find that you became more and more resentful at doing what you agreed to do? When we say yes to something that we really don’t want to do then we really aren’t doing anyone any favors. I have known many a serial volunteer mom, a ‘stay at home’ mom who is so stressed out that she is always on the verge of tears. She says yes to everyone who asks her to do something and because she doesn’t want to let anyone down she is taking on more and more. She ends up not having time to do anything well and the ones who suffer the most are her family.

It’s not easy to break this cycle but it is imperative that the cycle be broken. The simplest way to start saying no is to say that you need to think about it – say 24 hours. During those 24 hours ask yourself if you really want to be involved in the project? Will it enhance the quality of your family life? Is there someone else that can be asked? Do you really have the time to invest in the project? Is it a project that you are passionate about? It’s OKAY to say no – in fact when you say no you are giving someone else the opportunity to be asked.

When all is said and done our family is our most important responsibility and they deserve to always get the best that we have to give not what’s left. By focusing on the needs of our family and our own needs we are able to distress and become much clearer on what it is that we want and not worry so much about what other want from us. What is it that YOU want?