The list of stuff we agree to is amazing, and quite obnoxious in some cases. Before you wonder if I am the world's worst friend/mother/wife/daughter I want you to know I do most of this stuff, like it or not. Recently I was involved in a big, no HUGE project. It was weeks of effort. I did enjoy parts of the project, even most of the project, but I was exhausted. I was physically ill from lack of sleep and stress. My eating patterns changed. I lost weight. (I know some of you would be excited by this, but it was for all the wrong reasons.) I was always tired and my body rebelled.
As I was lamenting my involvement in said project a dear friend gave me some very sage advice. She told me I needed to become intimately familiar with the word "No." I laughed and asked her exactly which project I should stop working on. She repeated, "Learn the word no."
Now most of us have been taught to say "Yes" whenever possible. Chances are we say it too much. I know I do. Recently a friend called and asked me to sub for a class she was teaching so she could go on a trip. I was exhausted, had very little advanced warning and needed to spend time with my family, so I took a deep breath and said, "No." It was hard. I felt awkward and even a little selfish, I mean it was a trip her husband had planned for her birthday and all. But I did it, and guess what? It was the right call.
There is no need to do every activity, be everywhere and accomplish everything. It is true. I know you may be having a hard time accepting what I just said, but it is true.
So as the holiday season comes closer make sure you take a deep breath and remember those two little letters which can set you free. You will enjoy yourself and family much more if you do. So go forth and say "No!"
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