inspiring joy filled living
Saying No with Grace
October 29, 2025
How Boundaries are an Act of Self-Respect
There was a time when I said “yes” to everything. Every invitation, every request, every favor. If someone needed help, I was there.
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On the surface, it looked generous. But underneath? I was exhausted — and if I’m being honest, a little resentful.
Somewhere along the way, I realized that saying yes to everything was actually saying no to myself.
Learning to say no has been one of the kindest things I’ve ever done for my peace — and for the people I love.
Because when we protect our energy, we show up with more joy, more patience, and more heart.
✨ Why Saying No Feels So Hard
If you struggle with saying no, you’re not alone.
Most of us grew up believing that a “good person” is always available — that love looks like self-sacrifice.
But here’s the truth: you can love people deeply and still have boundaries.
You can say no and still be kind.
You can disappoint someone without being disrespectful.
Saying no isn’t selfish — it’s honest. It’s a way of living in alignment with your values instead of out of obligation.
💕 Boundaries Are Bridges, Not Walls
Boundaries aren’t about shutting people out; they’re about keeping relationships healthy.
They’re the quiet guardrails that protect your peace and energy, so you can give from a full cup instead of running on empty.
Here’s a shift that changed everything for me:
Boundaries don’t say “I don’t care about you.”
They say, “I care about me too.”
Healthy boundaries invite mutual respect — for yourself and for others.
🪷 How to Say No with Grace
You don’t need to explain or over-apologize.
You can be both firm and kind.
Here are a few simple ways to practice:
- “Thank you for thinking of me, but I can’t commit to that right now.”
- “That sounds like a wonderful opportunity, but it’s not a good fit this season.”
- “I really appreciate the invite, but my plate is full this weekend.”
Short. Kind. Clear.
No guilt required.
When you say no with grace, you make room for a better yes — one that aligns with your values, your energy, and your purpose.
🌸 The Freedom of Boundaries
Something amazing happens when you start saying no to what drains you — you get your peace back.
You stop living by everyone else’s expectations and start building a life that feels lighter, calmer, and more authentic.
Boundaries don’t close doors — they open space for the right things to grow.
So this week, practice one small act of self-respect:
Say no where you need to, and notice how it feels.
Your peace is worth protecting.
📚 From My Bookshelf
If you liked this post about boundaries, you’ll love The Best Yes by Lysa TerKeurst.
It’s a gentle reminder that we don’t have to say yes to everything to be kind, loving, or faithful. Lysa shares how to make wise decisions that bring peace — not guilt — and how learning to say no can actually help us live more fully present. This book has been a frequent fixture on my nightstand as I have definitely needed this reminder over the years!
“You must not confuse the command to love with the disease to please.” — Lysa TerKeurst
✨ Find it here: The Best Yes by Lysa TerKeurst
One More!
Another book I also highly recommend is Present Over Perfect by Shauna Niequist — a beautiful reminder that peace doesn’t come from doing more, but from slowing down and truly being present. I read this book in a Bible Study several years ago and it was actually the catalyst to start my blog. After reading it, I felt like I was given full permission to lean in and be present with the things I truly care about (my family, friends, faith and writing) because time is precious, fragile and fleeting. It definitely opened my eyes to the life I was living and the life I wanted to live.
✨ Find it here: Present Over Perfect by Shauna Niequist
This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you if you choose to make a purchase through these links. I only recommend books, products, and resources that I truly love and believe add value to your life. Thank you for supporting Seeking Roses and helping me continue to share encouragement and inspiration! 🌸
🌿 Coming Next Week
The Joy of Slow — Why Rest Isn’t Lazy, It’s Sacred
Because slowing down isn’t a weakness — it’s wisdom.
🪷 Seeking Roses Philosophy
At Seeking Roses, we believe joy doesn’t wait for perfect — it grows in the small, intentional choices we make every day.
