21.5 – For Last Week’s MM:

“For last year’s words belong to last year’s language. And next year’s words await another voice.” – T.S. Eliot

“Almost everything will start working again if you unplug it for a few minutes… including you.” – Anne Lamott

What language of your life in 2025 will you leave behind? What language of 2026 will you bring alive?

Unplug yourself. Literally and figuratively. Pause what you’re doing, reflect on your year, and let me know what you find.

Well, it’s actually Tuesday… and I made yesterday’s post something entirely NOT Monday Mark, so I’m making up for that before I have EMDR in 45 minutes lol.

For my “unplugging” – I didn’t ponder long. It’s been a really rough year and I’d like to leave behind all the pain and agony of heartbreak. It would be nice if I could do a reset that easily. I doubt it will happen. Either way, I can only hope that this year is one of growth and happiness.

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22.0 – If Saying “No” Is Hard For You

Three practical ways to say “No”

People needing you constantly:

I would love to help you, but I’m going to be unavailable for the next [time].

Why it works: People accept a “no” much easier if they know it’s not personal or about them.

You’re overworked and need a break:

My bandwidth is maxed out, I’m not going to be effective unless I take a break.

Why it works: Research shows that people will accept disappointing news if it’s given a logic or rationale—any logic/rationale.

Topic feels too emotionally charged:

This conversation is getting emotional. Why don’t we press pause on it and come back to it later?

Why it works: People generally recognize that they will likely say dumb/hurtful things when they’re emotionally triggered. Acknowledging that makes it much easier to say you don’t want to get into a big fight than simply shutting the person out.

Reflect: Then consider sharing this thought with others.

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Two things for you to ask yourself

Do you have trouble saying “no”? Why do you think you do?

Recommended: Use these as journaling prompts for the week.

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One thing for you to try this week

Say “no” to one thing you’d normally say “yes” to, then regret later. If you’re not sure how, download my free Boundaries, Solved Guide.

Remember: Small changes lead to lasting breakthroughs.

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As for how I’m doing… Pretty exhausted, honestly. I know that’s a recurring theme for me, but it is what it is. I miss being able to wake up and go about my day, doing normal things like housework, a job, socializing… you know, being a normal human with stuff to do. The weight of my chronic physical pain crushes me every single day. I’m always tired. Sleep is the only peaceful place I can be, and even that is spotty. I need a break from it, you know? But that’s a miracle that doesn’t just happen. Bleh.