Learning to Say No

I think that most of us have difficulty saying No. I certainly do. I have a strong desire to make other people happy and to meet certain expectations. So, in the past, I have attended parties I didn't really want to, done favors I didn't have time for and other similar things. It really was no big deal and I was happy to help or be social if it made someone else happy.

But oh how everything changes with a baby in the picture. Now all of these extra obligations are much more disruptive, at least for the time being. We had a great time over the holidays traveling to see various family members, but it was exhausting for us. But more than anything, we realized that it was exhausting for Joaquin. He hates the car. He needs regular naps. He gets upset in noisy situations. All of these things make it so difficult to be anywhere and everywhere we are desired.

So, I am trying to learn that saying No is not an insult, but is a necessary decision that I need to make for Joaquin. Easier said than done.