114. An Example of Saying No When You Want to Say Yes

Saying no is rarely easy — especially when the opportunity is something you really want to say yes to. In this episode, I share a personal example of when I turned down a big media opportunity that landed right in the middle of my family’s annual Colorado trip.

On paper, I was technically available. My husband could’ve watched the kids, my calendar was clear, and the opportunity would’ve been great for my business. But in practice? Saying yes would have derailed my ability to truly unplug, be present with my family, and recharge.

In this episode, I walk you through:

• The ripple effects of saying yes — from prep time and tech checks to energy recovery afterward.

• Why the pause is the most powerful tool when you’re tempted to say yes too quickly.

• How to evaluate the true cost of opportunities beyond the calendar block they appear to take.

• The difference between scarcity thinking (“this may never come again”) and embracing a more abundance mindset (even if a little woo).

• Why protecting vacation time, family time, and rest can sometimes matter more than visibility opportunities.

• How saying no doesn’t just protect you — it also builds strength, clarity, and integrity.

I also share how I reframed the “no” by connecting the opportunity with another woman in my field. It reminded me that collaboration, generosity, and boundaries can all exist together.

If you ever feel guilty or second-guess yourself when saying no — especially to exciting opportunities — this episode might help you see the full picture and feel more confident in your decision-making.

Check out my free 5-day time blocking program at kellynolan.com/refresh to practice visually mapping out ripple effects before you commit. And if you’re ready to go deeper, enrollment for the Bright Method 10-week program opens October 3rd. More info on both below.

Links you might enjoy:

• 🌿 Free 5-Day Time Management Program Get five short, practical video lessons packed with realistic strategies to help you manage your personal and professional life with more clarity and calm.

• 📱 Follow me on Instagram Get bite-sized, real-life time management tips for working women—like reminders to set mail holds before travel, anonymous day-in-the-life calendars from other professional women, and behind-the-scenes looks at how I manage my own time.

• ✨ The full Bright Method™️ program If you're ready for a full time management system that's realistic, sustainable, and dare I say… fun, check out the Bright Method program. It's helped hundreds of professional women take back control of their time—and their peace of mind.