There are times when one is stretched too thin, is worn out, and can’t quite stomach yet another item on the to-do list. Yet, we still say “yes” to helping out or going to some event. Basically, there are a number of things we often say “yes” to even though we’d rather do anything but that.

We can say “yes” for a number of reasons. For example, we truly want to help. We may also say “yes” automatically out of reflex. Perhaps we are to scared to say otherwise. Also, we could say “yes” to look good knowing full well we have no intention of following through. That last one being a deep sign of inauthenticity. People, can at times, see through that immediately. Sometimes, it takes a bit for them to catch one. But eventually they do.

Quite often, we should say “no” for a million and one reasons. However, we’re sometimes afraid to do so for fear of appearing to be mean-spirited, egocentric, or callous. We often say “yes” for the wrong reasons. We aim to please but because it was not the right “yes” we fail and sputter. And, that’s not a good look.

Here’s the take home. A gentle “no” outshines an insincere “yes”. A gentle “no” may be better for your health and relationships in the long-run.