Today, let’s say “no” to clutter. Clutter is your collection of things that lie around and cause your space to look untidy. I know that I can’t live or work in clutter! It actually zaps my energy and creativity.  It’s time to get your desk organized, clear out your closet, get rid of the broken toys, obsolete papers that have been stacking up, discarded clothes you don’t wear anymore. But also, clear out the old resentments and unsatisfying relationships.

Today, let’s say “no” to bad meetings. Choose the meetings that will enhance your business and professional growth. Some meetings just aren’t worth your time. Perhaps you can send a junior employee or other member of your staff or skip it altogether. I learned this early on in my career. In an effort to appear to ‘be everywhere’ so that people would know me, I allowed myself to be part of more meetings than were really necessary. Prune back the amount of bad meetings you agree to attend.

Today, let’s say “no” to gossip. Gossip is when we allow ourselves to engage in conversations that leave you feeling bad about yourself or others. Have you ever been a victim of some gossip? These days, its tabloid fodder, social media and cyber bullying are one of the cruelest activities that humans can put upon each other.

Abuse comes in many forms, but they all have the same impact on us. Whatever sort of abusive relationship you might be engaged it, today is the day to allow yourself to become aware of it and to just say no more! Whether it’s verbal or mental abuse by your employer, or an emotionally abusive relationship with a partner or even parent, or perhaps you have an acquaintance that abuses your giving nature – be aware of how it makes you feel about yourself!

Today, let’s say “no” to social pressure. Are you influenced by your peers? Are they able to persuade you to conform to their demands? Our social circle can often define us and create a sense of camaraderie – but it’s critical to associate with like-minded friends and colleagues or we might be in danger of being influenced in changing our beliefs or

behaviors in order to ‘fit in’.

Today, let’s say “no” to envy. Do you envy your friends lives; the cars they drive, the clothes they wear or the job that they have? No one is immune to envy! That’s why they call it the ‘green-eyed monster’! Envy is painful because it affects your emotions! When

envious feelings emerge, that means you are discontented with your own life and resentful for somebody else’s success, profession and belongings.

Personal and professional growth occurs when you strive to take measures to care for yourself! If you are feeling overwhelmed, experience anxiety on a daily basis and constantly worry – you are putting too much stress on your mind, body and spirit! And that leads to illness – physically and emotionally!

We hear a lot in business and careers about being “authentic”. Many people claim that they are authentic in all that they do – and that should be what we all strive toward. When we say no to phoniness – we become genuine and real – sincere and honest.

The Power of No is helping improve lives! Today, let’s say “no” to pride. Do you get a feeling of deep pleasure and satisfaction from your own achievements? It’s perfectly acceptable to have a sense of pride in your accomplishments, but say no to pride because it robs you of growth.

The Power of No is helping improve lives! Today, let’s say “no” to stress! There are some startling statistics on stress in the workplace!

Job stress costs employers more than $200 Billion each year in absenteeism, tardiness, burnout, lower productivity, high turnover, workers’ compensation and medical insurance costs. An estimated 60% of all absenteeism from work is caused by stress.