Why do we have so much trouble saying “no”? We don’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings or disappoint someone. We may even be afraid. What would people think of us if we say “no”?

John C. Maxwell says, “Learn to say ‘no’ to the good so you can say ‘yes’ to the best.” When we know our true, specific purpose in life, it is easier to say “no” to the things that do not fit into our life plan. It is important to note, however, that we must truly know ourselves and seek to find our purpose before we can know what to say “no” to.

For instance, if my plan is to write a book and a blog to share money management information with other people, and I am invited to join an author’s club or attend a social media meeting, I may say “yes” because it will further my goal. However, with that plan, if I am invited to participate with a ladies group that knits sweaters to send to children in orphanages overseas, while this is a worthy cause and is a good thing to do, since knitting is not one of my strengths and this does not further my cause of writing and blogging, I would say “no” to this opportunity.

If you are a person who has difficulty saying “no” no matter the situation, I would recommend that you read a book by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend called Boundaries. This is an excellent book that will change your life.

What do you need to say “no” to so that you can live your fullest life?