Achieve Bliss Through the Power of Saying No

This past year I learned how to achieve bliss through the power of saying no. I never understood how to be truly at peace until I learned the power of saying the word no. This past year, I’ve learned how to say "yes" to bliss by saying "no" to the things that don’t bring me happiness. Learning the power of saying no has been a key component to my bliss and happiness.

I took an online life-planning course a few months ago, and the instructor said that one of his mentors quits something every Thursday. He described the practice as healthy and liberating. The idea initially sounded extreme to me. Quit something every Thursday? How could you possibly find that many things to quit? I tried it, though, and found a few categories worthy of “Quit Me Thursdays.”

Say No to Negative Energy Sources

I belong to several mommy groups on Facebook. Most of them help me as a first-time mother, but one seemed plagued with negativity. I soon found myself visiting the page only to read the gossip.

Negative energy attracts negative energy. In order for me to live in a blissful state I had to cut ties with my sources of negative energy. If you want to live a blissful life you must choose your friends wisely.

When I chose to remove myself from the negative online mommy group, I felt freedom. I chose not to allow negative comments and energy to enter my mind.

Say No to Time-Consuming Obligations

I like to take new opportunities — especially in writing. The older I get, however, the more I value my time. After realizing last year that my column on bargain shopping in a local newspaper was taking time from higher-priority activities, I gave it up even though I had enjoyed writing it. By giving up my column, I gained time to devote to other writing projects and to spend with my daughter.

Say No to Non-Empowering Habits

Humans tend to be creatures of habit, and our habits often hold us back. I watched Good Morning America every morning until I noticed that it took me twice as long to get ready for work. Turning off the TV empowered me to become a more punctual employee.

Are There Areas of Your Life Where Saying No Could Help You Achieve Bliss?

Are there areas of your life in which you feel drained by negative energy? Do you feel resentful about the time you spend on certain obligations? Are there habits or patterns that keep you from being your best self? Think about these questions. The answers might lead you to areas of your life where you make want to use the power of no.

Saying "no" to negativity, low-priority time commitments and bad habits can enable you to say "yes" to bliss.

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