The Hidden Power of No

Design your life by saying no to what no longer fits you

Author

Janelle Howell
August 12, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 4 minutes

Design Your Life by Saying No to What No Longer Fits

Why Saying No Matters

August always brings a mix of excitement and stress. Suddenly, Back-to-School ads flood your screens, fall event flyers pop up everywhere, and office planning committees start forming to coordinate for upcoming holidays (even if they’re two months away). As your calendar fills up, you feel overwhelmed just thinking about it all. You know it’s impossible to say yes to everything and if you’re serious about designing a life that truly fits, you won’t even try.

Saying no protects your most valuable assets such as your time, energy, and focus.

And as you navigate your life design journey, there are three areas I want you to focus on saying “no” to:

  • Job offers or interviews that don’t feel like the right fit for your evolving values or vision (even if it feels like you’re missing out). Instead, invest your time and energy in opportunities that genuinely spark your curiosity or allow you to explore roles.

  • Staying in outdated roles out of comfort or fear. Instead, say yes to stretch assignments or projects that challenge you and open new doors, helping you move confidently toward what you want next.

  • Networking events that don’t provide value or connection to your goals. Instead, focus on building deeper relationships within smaller, targeted groups or industry circles where you can make quality connections and find meaningful opportunities. Quality over quantity.

Remember, saying “no” isn’t bad; it has the power to open the door to something better.

Two Actionable Ways to Use “No” Today 👇

Practice the “Pause & Assess” Rule

Before saying yes, pause.

Ask yourself:

1. Does this event/task/project align with my goals?

2. Is this the best use of my time? (Will it get me closer to where I want to be?)

- The Pause and Assess Rule

Note: If the answer isn’t a clear yes, it’s time to politely decline and keep your focus on what feels right for you.

What I’m Reading This Month

Saying “no” is about creating space for your best “yes.” If you’re ready to stop defaulting to roles, projects, or opportunities that no longer serve you, let’s explore what your next chapter could look like. Book a free discovery call when you’re ready.

Talk soon

~ Nelle