Create a Balance

Today I am taking a moment to remember why I have to put myself first if I am going to be the best I can be to everyone else. I know it is difficult, especially for moms, to say ”No” to someone else for what appears to be selfish reasons. Saying ”No” in our personal lives is critical, however, to successfully practice life balance.

Here are a few exercises to get you started on your journey to saying “No” and putting yourself first (If you work, use examples outside of work for these exercises).

Reflect
Make a list of when you could have said “No” to someone this week but instead took yourself over the edge by saying yes. What would have happened if you said “No”? Chances are you can generate a few situations where the world would not have come to an end if you would have said “No”. It may be hard at first to get used to the idea that you are replaceable, but sometimes that is a good thing.

Recognize
Recognize when you want to say “No”. Spend time this week observing how you react (body, mind, and spirit) when you want to shout “No” from the top of the world.

Respect
When the right situation surfaces, practice saying “No”. Take baby steps and try to say “No” to something at least once a day. Although it may feel uncomfortable at first, challenge yourself to enjoy the positive emotions generated by saying “No” such as pride, relief, joy, and self-importance.

“It comes from saying no to 1,000 things to make sure we don’t get on the wrong track or try to do too much.” ~ Steve Jobs, CEO of Apple, Inc.