“I think half of all the troubles in the world come from saying yes too quickly or not saying no too quickly.” — Josh Billings
How often do you use the word “no”? If you’re like most people, that’s probably not enough.
We live in a world where the word “Jesus” seems to be glorified. Seize every opportunity, keep every door open, spend every dollar, and keep yourself busy.
But in our quest for more, we often lose sight of what really matters. Filling our lives with a million yeses often leaves us empty.
One of the things I’ve learned over the years of pursuing minimalism is that the word “no” is not a denial, it’s a choice.
In fact, it’s one of the most empowering words in the English language. Saying “no” gives us control over our lives and makes room for the things that really matter.
ASU economics professor Kelvin Wong once wrote: simple money magazine One thing I have never forgotten is that “every choice we make has a cost. Even if it is financially free, our time and even our energy will be spent on another.” Because you can spend it on what you want.” I couldn’t agree more.
Every choice we make has an opportunity cost, and the currency we trade isn’t just money, it’s our time, energy, and attention.
For example, when we say “no” to impulse purchases, we are saying “yes” to financial health and the peace of mind that comes with it.
When we refuse to clog our calendars with nonessential commitments, we say yes to quality time with loved ones and quiet moments of soul-nourishing meditation and solitude. will be
Even if it seems like a noble cause, turning down unnecessary responsibilities leaves room for work that is closer to our true purpose and passion.
The temptation to overcommit yourself and your resources comes from both external and internal sources.
We live in a world where we always want to add more: more clothes, more gadgets, more social events, more obligations, more sideline opportunities.
but Also shown in research When faced with a problem, humans tend to look for solutions that add elements to their lives rather than subtract them. In the process, we risk overcomplicating our lives.
Let’s see a new perspective here. What if we started subtracting instead of adding? What if we embraced the power of “no” more often?
Saying “no” doesn’t mean closing doors or missing opportunities. It’s about making conscious decisions about what really counts in life. It’s about freeing yourself from the weight of clutter, distractions, and unnecessary burdens.
Next time you’re about to say yes to another appointment or purchase, ask yourself. “Is this adding real value to my life, or is it just a distraction?” If I say “no” to this, will I be able to give more room to what really matters?
Remember that each “no” is also a “yes” to something else, something that might be more meaningful. It could be a ‘yes’ to your own well-being, personal growth, financial freedom, and the pursuit of a fulfilling life.
After all, minimalism doesn’t mean not having something. It’s about the presence of the right things, the things that add real value to our lives.
And often it starts with a small “no”. Maybe that’s why it’s one of the most empowering words in the English language.
try out. You might be surprised at the freedom and clarity it brings.
