Saying “no” can feel unnatural to so many, but it is the first boundary I always suggest practicing. It isn’t lost on me how scary + intimidating it can be to do this work. We fear hurting others, we fear disappointing others, we fear losing others. I get it.
I want to empower you with some scripts that may not feel as heavy as a firm “no.” Remember, boundaries help you care for your emotional, physical, spiritual + financial well being. This includes how you show affection, how you spend or lend money, and where you use your time, energy, and your possessions.
While these scripts are a beginner’s step to saying “no,” I encourage you to resist the urge to apologize or justify after. Let’s begin getting better with feeling the discomfort that arises when we advocate for ourselves. Here, with practice, the discomfort will subside over time, but only if it’s felt again + again.
Which can you use today?
