Something we are often guilty of is ‘saying yes to help others’, when we really want to say no. Are you guilty of this problem, as I have been? Why do we do this? Maybe it’s because we don’t want to disappoint someone or because we feel like we have to “do it all” to be respected and feel valued. Hogwash. If we want balance and inner peace, we have to be able to just say no to what is not on our “absolute yes” list. It’s that simple.

Here are some suggestions:

• Stay in touch with your priorities. Be clear on your “absolute yes” list: the activities that benefit your personal growth, your family’s well-being and your need for balance.

• Don’t answer right away when you are asked to do something. Take at least 24 hours to think about it. Is it something you really have time to do, and still keep a healthy balance and some down time? Is it on your list of absolute priorities? If not, just say no!

• Realise you will, at times, disappoint others. You can’t please people all the time, and still be good to yourself. Put yourself first and others will benefit from your joy and happiness.

• If you are stuck in the “I have to do it all because I’m super-mama” trap, recognise it and let it go. When you are frantic, you are blocking your ability to live authentically and enjoy your life. Why would you want to do that?

• Keep explanations to a minimum. A simple, “thanks for asking, but I just can’t add that into my life right now” is great. — Agencies