This is why it's very important to learn how to say NO and mean it. Sometimes NO is the right answer. Sometimes NO is the way you show love - to yourself and to others. If your child wanted to drink bleach, you would say NO. Why? Because you love your child and you don't want them to get hurt. If someone wants you to do things that hurt you, hurt others or hurt them, you say NO. Not because you are trying to control their behavior; they can still do whatever they want. You say NO because you don't want to be a part of it. Sometimes people don't want to accept a NO, but people have to take "No" for an answer if that is the only answer you give them.

It's helpful to remember that NO is a complete sentence. You don't have to explain yourself. NO means NO. People may try to manipulate or guilt you out of your position but you have to stand your ground. Boundaries cannot be negotiated. Remember: if your boundaries are negotiable, that means your worth is negotiable. You have to decide that's not true.

Say NO with assertiveness and confidence. Think of NO as a wall between yourself and toxic people or unwanted situations. You are asserting your power here, and that should not be done hesitantly: NO, I will NOT do that. NO, I will NOT accept that. No, I will NOT allow that. I do NOT have to explain or justify. I will NOT feel guilty for caring about myself. I will NOT feel bad for taking control of my own life. Put yourself in charge!

Boundaries are one of the most important expressions of self-love there can be. They are how you show yourself and others that you will not accept being treated as less than you are worth.