The Power of Saying Yes to Yourself
Let’s kick off with a personal yarn. Seven and a half years ago, I was in the trenches of motherhood, juggling little kids, not sleeping a wink, and feeling utterly spent. My cup was bone dry, and I knew I needed a change. That’s when I decided to hit the gym – my first real "yes" to myself. It wasn’t easy, but that single decision has shaped who I am today. It was the spark that led me to a healthier, happier, and more fulfilled life. Saying yes to myself in that moment was the turning point I needed, and it can be the same for you.
It’s time to reflect on what success looks like for you. What dreams are you chasing? What goals are you setting? To achieve them, you need to start trusting yourself more. Stop looking for external validation and start tuning into what you really want. When you learn to trust your heart and energy, you’ll find more joy, fulfilment, and success waiting on the other side.
The Trap of External Gratification
We’re notorious for putting everyone else first – clients, family, mates – and leaving ourselves last. You might think you’re doing the right thing, but it often leads to feeling unappreciated, burned out, and flat. This relentless people-pleasing is a trap that can kill your joy and motivation. Instead of always seeking external approval, start prioritising what makes you happy and fulfilled. It’s not selfish – it’s essential.
How Saying Yes Changed My Life: A Real-Life Example
I wasn’t always good at putting myself first. I was the cranky mum, tired and frustrated, thinking I was making everyone else happy but failing miserably. Everything changed when I committed to that first "yes" – going to the gym.
From there, I started taking weekends for Spartan races, investing in my health, and making decisions that kept me strong and balanced. It didn’t happen overnight, but with every yes, my life got better, my energy increased, and I became a more positive influence on everyone around me.
Recognizing When to Say Yes
So, how do you know what to say yes to? Start by reflecting on what you’re currently missing. Do you need more time for exercise? An extra set of hands in the business? Maybe it’s time to hire that office person or take weekends away with your partner without feeling guilty.
Identify what’s draining you and decide to change it. Your future self will thank you.
The Fear Factor: Why We Say No
Fear is the biggest roadblock to saying yes to ourselves. We worry about what others will think, fear failure, or believe we don’t deserve to take time for ourselves. But living in fear only keeps us stuck.
It’s time to bust out of that comfort zone, trust your gut, and take a leap of faith.
Remember, fear is a killer of dreams and well-being. The change starts with one small yes.
Don’t try to overhaul your life overnight. Start with one thing you want to say yes to. It could be as simple as a morning walk, delegating paperwork, or finally taking that holiday you’ve been putting off. Each small yes builds momentum and confidence, leading to bigger and better changes down the line.
