As moms, we always have a long to-do list, don’t we? I know that most of the time, the LAST thing I need is to add something else to that list! It always seems to happen though, doesn’t it?
In a perfect world, we would be able to say yes to everything. A friend asks for help – sure, I can do that! Your kids ask to spend the day at the park – that sounds fun, let’s do it! Your mother in law wants to come to visit – sure, come on over!
But….after saying yes to everything, the stress and resentment start to set it. You may even start blaming yourself. You are left feeling frustrated, resentful, and exhausted.
“Love yourself enough to set boundaries. Your time and energy are precious. You get to choose how you use it. You teach people how to treat you by deciding what you will and won’t accept.”
You know what? You have nobody to blame but yourself!
Ouch.
There is something you can do though! You can learn how to say no. Saying no doesn’t have to be short and blunt (unless you want it to). Saying no can be super hard, but I want to help make it a little easier. Maybe some of these responses can help you!
- You’re so kind to think of me, but I can’t.
- I’m learning to limit my commitments.
- I’m booked into something else.
- Bandwidth is low, so I won’t be able to make it work.
- Sadly, I have something else.
- It just won’t fit right now.
- I’m really buckling down on my priorities right now, so I can’t.
- It’s a Wednesday, I have a “No on Wednesday Policy”
- My body double can.
- My advisors won’t agree to it.
See? Saying no doesn’t have to be harsh or negative! Setting your boundaries is a part of self-care. And if you need some more support, I would love to have you in my community, and I would love to be in your corner. My Facebook group is a place to get connected to others, ask questions, learn something new, and offers a safe space to learn. Come on over and check it out!
Helpful Links
I have some helpful information if you have enjoyed this article and want more. If you are a mom wanting to work from home but have no idea how to get started, grab my free getting started guide, “10 Easy Steps to Get Started as a Virtual Assistant.” And if you are lacking confidence and wondering if you really can do it, If I can do it, living in a small rural town in Missouri with no formal business education or entrepreneurial background, so can you!
Go here to grab the free guide!
You’ll also be added to my email list, where I’ll send tips about working as a Virtual Assistant and more time-saving tips for busy moms.
And feel free to comment here with a tip of your own. The more we support each other, the better!