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“No” is the new “Yes”
When listening to some friends talk about their “New Years Resolutions”, I was struck at the amount of cynicism the conversation held. I couldn’t resist- I had to ask the obvious question….
If you know you’re going to break a resolution, its just a matter of time, then why make them at all?!
Hmmmm……Then my wheels started turning. If I were to make one promise to myself this year, it would be to be more intentional. Being more intentional includes doing things at 100% of my ability, instead of trying to do them all at half or less. It seemed to be a no brainer for me, even though my audience did not understand how I could possibly say no to some things.
It is simple, really. We all have things we do because we feel obligated to do them. The guilt of saying no to being a homeroom mom, the worry that someone will think I do not care about my church for not going on the meals commitee. The long list of demands placed on each of us each week to perform, volunteer, organize and represent. But wait! What if I decided to represent a few things really well, instead of a lot of things part way? For me, the top things torefuse are simple.
1- I will not schedule “stuff” into the white space I have so carefully carved out on my calendar.
2- I will not take on a project or make a commitment that over extends my physical well being.
3-I will not speak for or commit my husband, family or myself for anything with out conversation and unwavering approval first.
4-I will cut back on my subscriptions in mail and email, and set up a study guide for myself to stick with so my reading and studying is not overloading me.
5- I am not going to be afraid to say “No” in 2016.
Saying “NO” to some things can mean saying “YES” to other more important, intentional things. I want to see my grandchildren, but I also cannot watch them everyday. I want to be involved with worship and praise, but I do not want to be on a leadership team. I want to write, but I am sticking with the few projects I am already committed to. I am losing weight and eating healthier, but I am not starting a program to accomplish it. I am building a new chicken house, but I am not changing the original plan to make it cute like in magazines.
I need to simplify a few things in my personal life in order to give 100% and be intentional on the things that matter to me the most.
What are some things you can say “No” to this year, in order to say a more intentional “Yes”?
Oh I am learning this too!! I tend to be able to handle more than most people (not bragging it just is) which can be a curse because I think I can handle more than I can….or rather more than I SHOULD and don’t leave myself room to rest! I am cutting back on things this year and focusing on those that I need to make a priority! It is also hard because what I believe God wants me to do isn’t always what others think I should be doing or think He would want me to do. But that is between Him and me right? SO I’m with you on being intentional, leaving white space, and saying no when necessary!