A couple of weeks ago, I revealed my Word of the Year in the podcast (if you missed it, you can catch up here). 

But living up to this word requires embracing another powerful tool in my arsenal – a tiny but mighty two-letter word: NO.

I’ve started thinking of it this way: “No” is my new black. 

And you know what? It’s the perfect antidote to “should season.”

Let’s talk about “shoulds” for a moment. They sneak into our lives like uninvited guests, making themselves comfortable in our decision-making process. 

“You should take on that project.” 

“You should attend that event.” 

“You should, you should, you should…” 

Before we know it, our lives are cluttered with other people’s expectations and obligations that don’t truly align with our values.

That’s where “no” comes in – elegant, simple, and surprisingly powerful. Just like that perfect little black dress, “no” helps you eliminate the excess and focus on what truly matters.

It’s the ultimate should-busting accessory.

In this week’s podcast, I’m diving deep into how these persistent “shoulds” keep us from living authentically and how mastering the art of “no” might just be our ticket to freedom.

Because sometimes, the most powerful way to banish a “should” is with a well-placed “no.”

Here’s to saying “no” to the “shoulds”!

The Elegant Edge of No

Half of the troubles of this life can be traced to saying yes too quickly and not saying no soon enough.

~ Josh Billings

Like a master artist knowing precisely what to leave out of their composition, there’s an understated power in the word “no.” In a world that constantly demands more of our time, energy, and attention, the ability to say “no” with grace becomes our most sophisticated skill.

Think of each “no” as a careful edit to your life’s story. When you decline what doesn’t serve you, you create space for what does. Your “no” isn’t just a rejection – it’s a declaration of what you value, a statement of self-worth that ripples through every aspect of your life.

This week, notice how many “shoulds” try to slip into your daily decisions. Then, practice wielding your “no” with the quiet confidence it deserves.

The Year of Magical Thinking

I keep this book on my bedside table like a trusted friend. When I first read it, I was struck by its grace and clarity in capturing life’s most challenging moments. It’s become my go-to reminder that we always have the power to choose our response to life’s unexpected turns.

What I love most is how it shows us that saying “no” – to comfortable narratives, to what we think we should feel, to the stories we tell ourselves – can be an act of tremendous courage. I repeatedly return to these pages when I need inspiration to stand firm.

“Should” Season is Out

That committee you reluctantly joined? The social event that drained your energy? The project that wasn’t aligned with your goals? How many times have you said “yes” when every fiber of your being wanted to say “no”?

I’m pulling back the curtain on the exhausting cycle of “shoulds” and sharing my own journey from people-pleaser to peace-finder. We’ll explore why the word “no” might just be the most luxurious form of self-care.

Whether you’re drowning in obligations or simply ready to reclaim your time and energy, this conversation will give you the confidence to set boundaries that honor your authentic self.