Learning to Say "No" - Make it Your Secret Weapon

Are you suffering from SuperMom burnout? Do you sometimes struggle just to make it through each day? Moms everywhere are breaking down and giving out because they are too chicken to say, “No.” “No” may be a tiny, two-letter word, but it is definitely your secret weapon. And you can say it.

I am dedicating this list of ways you can say "no" (and not feel guilty about it) to my good friend Robyn at One Tough Momma - she admittedly has a LITTLE problem. Take these to heart, Robyn!

• "Sorry, I’m taking a break." The number one reason why you should say, “no” occasionally is simply that you deserve a break. You are chef, chauffeur, dish washer, and more. You job never ends on any given day of the week. You deserve a break.
• "My schedule is full." We tend to jam-pack our schedule full of activities, leaving time for nothing. Cut back on your kids activities (the rule in our household is one activity per season). Start a car pool and share driving responsibilities. Do whatever you can to free up some time in your schedule.
• "I'm really slammed right this second, could I call you back tonight after the kids are in bed?" You’re headed out the door, rushing to the next appointment when the telephone rings. What do you do? Do you come to a screeching halt and answer the phone? Let’s say you do, and it’s a family member, calling to dump their latest woes on you. Do you stand, tapping your foot impatiently while you roll your eyes and listen to the sob story? This is a typical scene for many moms. Unless it is a DIRE emergency, they should understand that you have a busy life too and you will be much better equipped to help them later on after your immediately stress is gone.
• "I have another commitment that day." Say it and mean it. Regularly schedule in time with your family or time alone (and physically write it down in your planner) and if someone ask for your help during that time look in your planner and tell them you have another commitment.

Instead of rushing to be everything to everyone, stop for a moment. Ask yourself if you truly have time for whatever comes up. If not, say no by walking away, turning off the ringer on the phone, or not answering the knock at your door. Always remember that you are a mom—not a super hero. When you have to say no, people will understand; if they don’t at first, they will get used to it eventually.

Find out how to de-stress your life and regain YOU with Journey to Joy!