Saying yes is sometimes not the best choice while saying no too often might leave one out of the loop and missing out on amazing opportunities.
We tend to say yes when we really should say no, and vice versa. It is hard to always know how to respond, especially when faced with time-bound questions that invoke emotion or a sensitive response.
Think about it for a second. Have you ever been asked a question you weren't prepared to answer? At some point or another, we all have.
These questions catch us off guard, and we tend to feel pressured to answer them quickly, or even answer them how we think the other person wants us to respond.
No matter what the case may be, knowing how (and when) to say yes and no is essential for your well-being- mentally, spiritually, and emotionally.
Before you say yes or no, check in with yourself first.
Listen To Your Intuition
Our intuition is an internal guiding compass that directs our actions and decisions. Decades of evolution have sharpened our intuition. It is one aspect about ourselves that will never fail us and will always have our best interest in mind.
Stop, breathe, and tune in to your inner compass. Let your intuition be your guide.
What Emotional State Are You Experiencing?
Keep track of your emotional state. What emotions are you experiencing right now? Will your current emotion affect your decision to say yes or no?
Try to imagine yourself in the situation before you respond. How do you feel in either scenario?
It is best to make long-term or heavy decisions when we are in a neutral emotional state, unaffected by either happiness or sadness, which may sway us towards yes or no.
Resist The Urge To Respond How The Other Person Wants You To Respond
Yes, yes, a million times yes.
As humans, we are hardwired to be "people pleasers"- or at least be liked or fit in with others. Because we have a primal and natural desire to connect, we tend to say “yes” or “no” based on factors outside of ourselves.
For example, have you ever had a friend ask you to do something, and you agreed out of fear of hurting the friendship, but in reality, all you wanted was to say no?
It is so essential to place importance on yourself and your own needs, particularly when you feel drained and not at your optimum level. Saying yes or no should be based on how you truly feel, not based on how someone else will react.
Both Yes And No Are Uniquely Powerful
The words “yes” and “no” hold immense power. One simple word can cause actions to shift, decisions to be made, and life paths to be redirected.
Remember, say yes to what gives you meaning, gives you energy, and serves your best interest.
Say yes to opportunities that offer growth and meaningful experiences, and say no to situations that cause you pain, stress, and simply do not feel right.