I recently surveyed more than 600 Utah women and found that 60 percent say they take on more commitments than they can handle, and 68 percent reported they don’t say “no” when asked to do something they don’t want to do. There are so many demands on your time and energy that saying “no” is crucial to your emotional well-being.

Why is it hard to say “no”?

In my therapy office and in my workshops I often hear women they don’t say “no” because:

• “I don’t want to disappoint others.”
• “I should be able to do it all.”
• “I want to help.”
• “If I say ‘no’ I feel guilty.”
• “I want to please others.”
• “I feel pressured by others.”

Click  HERE to read more about why “no” is important and for tips to help you say “no”

About Julie Hanks LCSW: Dynamic self & relationship expert Julie de Azevedo Hanks, LCSW loves to make a difference. Whether it's performing her songs, helping therapy clients, or giving advice in media interviews, Julie's down-to-earth professionalism and helpful advice inspires everyone to take good care of themselves and their relationships. Watch Julie on KSL TV's Studio 5, get counseling from her clinic Wasatch Family Therapy & read her national advice columns on Psych Central's Ask the Therapist, and Private Practice Toolbox. Connect on Facebook & Twitter...and watch for her new book releasing in 2013.