It’s not my job, nor is it my responsibility, to make other people’s lives easier.

Let me elaborate, because I know that sounds cold.

As a recovering “people pleaser”, I’ve always struggled with caring too much about what other people think- often times, to my own detriment.

I’ve said yes when I really meant no, out of fear of disappointing someone or letting them down.
I’ve said yes to things I didn’t have the time or energy to do, and then struggled to play catch up.
I’ve said yes and then secretly resented those who asked for my help, which feels so crummy, as it’s not their fault I struggle with this internal battle of saying, “I can’t right now”.

Since having children, however, {especially now that I have two}, I’m much more aware of how precious my time and energy really are. Many times, if I’m saying yes to too many other things, my time and energy tanks are running too low to efficiently manage my “duties” at home {and ultimately, the people who matter the most}.

I’ve heard it said, “If you’re succeeding everywhere else but your family is failing, you’re failing.” Obviously, there are seasons and scenarios where you’re stretched thin beyond your control and your priorities may be a little off balance due to certain circumstances, and I hope you hear my heart when I say, *zero judgement*. Life happens, dude. But my point is this: I’ve been entrusted with two amazing littles and an incredible husband, [and out of this world parents]. They deserve my best, not my leftovers. So that means I sometimes need to say “no” to things, (even if they’re good things), to make sure I can keep that balance in check and be able to show up for them to the best of my ability.

I’ll never be perfect, but I’m discovering that I’m my best self to both me and my family when I can say “no” when I need to.