As an academic, helping professional, and mom, I used to say yes to almost everything that was asked of me.

It felt like the “successful” thing to do. It was how I demonstrated that I was hardworking, capable, and willing to go above and beyond. It was also fear-based. If I said "no" to an opportunity, it would go to someone else and I might lose my edge.

I got to a point where I was constantly moving—just not forward. I realized my life revolved around crossing tasks off my to-do list or answering emails within 24........

© Psychology Today