Have you ever said yes to someone’s request when in your heart you wanted to say no? We’ve all done this before and regretted saying yes. Saying no to others is healthy for your mind, body, and spirit.

You are not a bad person if you say no to other people’s requests. In fact, it is probably a good act for yourself to say no, because you do not have the stress that comes with wishing you had said no.

A client inspires this blog post, and it is my hope that the words I share with you are helpful.

Saying ‘Yes’ when you want to say ‘No.’

You said yes, but in the back of your mind, you wish you would have said no. What happens when you dwell on what you should have done? You feel:

• stressed,
• frustrated,
• resentful,
• disappointed,
• and manipulated.

Do you realize the way you feel can also have an effect on your overall health and well-being?

I know you probably do not believe this is true, but it is. Here’s how I know it is true.

A friend confided in me about helping a colleague. She had reservations about saying yes, but she said yes anyway.  After saying yes, she felt stressed and manipulated about her decision.

Quick Story: I remember doing business with a person online, and I wanted to say no, but I hired them anyway. Needless to say, working with that person was not a pleasurable experience at all. I kept telling myself that I should have never hired them. Lesson learned.

Shortly after saying yes, she began having pain in her foot. She was not having any issues with her foot until after saying yes.

Having foot pain could be a coincidence, but it is strange that after saying yes and having mental anguish about saying yes, the pain appeared.

Saying ‘No’ is probably the healthiest act you can do for yourself

There comes a time when you have to say no; regardless of the outcome. When placed in a situation of having to issue a ‘yes’ or a ‘no’ to someone, think about it and pray about it too. And like the elders say, “Go with your first mind.”

Going with your first mind, means you do what comes to your mind first and what makes you feel comfortable. If you do not feel at ease with saying yes, then by all means, say no.

Sometimes you have to say ‘no’ for your peace of mind. Granted the other person might not like your answer, but it is important that you are at peace.

When you do not have peace: fear, worry, and anxiety enter. As a result of not having peace your mind and spirit are affected, which can trickle down to your body.

Final Words

Do not allow anyone to take advantage of your kindness. If you want to say yes to others, then say yes. However, if your gut says no, then stick with what your gut says.

Remember, your health and happiness should be number one on your list. And when you make your overall health and well-being priority, you will always do what is best for your mind, body, spirit, and soul.

Stay true to yourself and always do what makes you feel good!