How to say NO

Growing up, I always wanted to please everyone. I wanted everyone to like me...to love me. I did not want to let anyone down.

Once Michael and I married, he taught me that it was okay to say NO, and that it really did not matter if people liked it or not. That has really changed my life. I have said YES only to those things that I really want to do...especially in the last 10 years or so. It has allowed me to simplify my life.

Here are some ways to say NO...nicely:

• "While my heart wants to say 'YES,' the reality of my time makes this a 'NO.'"
• "I'm sorry, but I can't give it the attention it deserves, so I must say 'NO.'"