Burdened with a low self-image, we mistakenly believe our time is worth less than others’ time. We wrongly assume our goals and interests are inferior to other people’s goals and interests. We perceive our value to the world as somehow less than the value offered by those around us.

The right verbs encourage execution. They encourage you to take action. The wrong ones do the opposite. They encourage procrastination. Verbs like explore, plan, and touch base lack specificity. As a result, they’re less effective than verbs like research, draft, and call. These latter choices have more impact because they imply specific actions. They leave nothing open to interpretation.

If you ask what is the single most important key to longevity, I would have to say it is avoiding worry, stress and tension.” – George Burns.

Third, I looked for opportunities to desensitize myself to adverse circumstances. By doing so, I became less inclined to lose my cool when things didn’t go my way. For example, I’d visit my favorite restaurant during times I knew it would be crowded. This forced me to wait for a table. Ultimately, doing so forced me to come to terms with my impatience.

The difference between successful people and very successful people is that very successful people say ‘no’ to almost everything.” – Warren Buffett Part I The People-Pleasing Habit Think of a friend or acquaintance whom you’d consider to be a typical people pleaser.

If you don’t prioritize your life, someone else will. – Greg McKeown A ‘no’ uttered from the deepest conviction is better than a ‘yes’ merely uttered to please, or worse, to avoid trouble. – Mahatma Gandhi The difference between successful people and very successful people is that very successful people say ‘no’ to almost everything.” – Warren Buffett.

There will always be someone who could benefit from your attention. There will always be people who will gladly accept your help if you offer it. But keep in mind, you’re not responsible for solving other people’s problems. You’re responsible for yourself and those who depend on you.

Consider how flight attendants explain airline safety to passengers. In the event the cabin decompresses, you’re supposed to put on your oxygen mask before helping others put on their masks. Help yourself first. Then, assist others. These instructions aren’t intended to promote self-preservation. Rather, the airline knows that if you help others first, you risk succumbing to hypoxia. And that would prevent you from helping anyone.

Self-care isn’t selfish. It’s necessary. The problem is, if you’re constantly saying yes to other people, putting their priorities ahead of your own, you won’t have the time or energy to care for yourself. And you’ll slowly become irritated, cynical, and miserable.

We have a limited number of hours to play with each day. That means every time we say yes to someone, we’re saying no to someone or something else.