"No" Is a Complete Sentence

Beyond popular belief, 'NO' is a complete sentence. Sometimes as we battle lupus, we have a problem saying 'NO.' This can be because we feel bad for saying no or because we just don't know how to say no. It is important in your lupus fight that you learn to say 'NO' and not feel bad or guilty for doing so.

Why is it important to say "no?"

It's okay to say 'NO' to other people sometimes. You will not always be able to live up to other people's expectations of you. At some point in your lupus fight, you will need to learn how to assert yourself. If you say yes to everything someone asks of you, you will eventually feel as if you are being taken advantage of, and it will cause you some undue stress. When you refuse to say yes, you respect your own time and become aware of how to remove yourself from circumstances and environments that you do not wish to be in.

What saying "no" can help you with

Saying 'NO' can protect your emotional health and enable you to prioritize your own needs. 'NO' is the brave word that will reveal your value to others. It may be uncomfortable at first, but it will become second nature with practice. When you are able to say 'NO' to something you don't want to do or that you can't do, you build your self-esteem, free up your time, and demonstrate to others to respect your choices without judgment and explanation. Ultimately saying 'NO' can help you reduce stress, gain confidence, increase energy, give you more time for yourself and generate a level of respect from others.

Reduce stress

In all honesty, if you have too many obligations or you have not been feeling well, you must say 'NO.' You have to respect your body and your responsibilities. When someone asks you to do anything, make sure you are well enough to do what is asked, and you are not overburdening yourself. To avoid stress, be honest with your loved ones and coworkers.

Gain confidence

In addition, we will all be asked for favors and assistance from others at some point. You may find it tough to tell them you can't be there for them. When this happens, our own obligations and health issues may be put on hold to address someone else's issues. You can avoid this by confidently refusing with no explanation. Speaking up for yourself boosts your confidence and self-esteem as you battle lupus.

Increase energy

Actually, saying 'NO" will boost your energy. You will have more time to tend to your own needs and desires, which will increase your energy levels. It does not mean you are a selfish person and should not make you feel bad in the least. It is just a way to protect your own health and life obligations.

More time for yourself

In fact, if you always say yes to others' requests, you will never have time for yourself. Trying to please everyone all the time and fulfill demands on a regular basis is unrealistic and will eventually lead to exhaustion.

Respect from others

Ultimately, putting your own needs on the back burner for someone else can be harmful. Others can be disrespectful of your time. Therefore, setting important boundaries by saying 'NO' will teach others the importance of respecting your time and your own obligations.

Do not be afraid to say no

In conclusion, don't be afraid to say 'NO.' Even if the 'NO' is to yourself. You can't do everything, and a break is necessary. Start saying 'NO' to avoid depletion of your energy, overdoing it, and creating a flare. 'NO' is a complete sentence, no explanation is needed, and you deserve expressing that without guilt.