Reclaim your energy this NOvember by using the Power of NO (PART 1)

With a new month comes a new and somewhat nourishing energy.

November is an invitation to reset, to breathe and to clear out anything that feels overwhelming, exhausting or misaligned.

I always like to think of November as “No-vember” and invite you to do the same—a time to focus on saying no to the commitments, tasks and obligations that drain you, so you have room for all the things that fuel your energy and bring you love & joy.

For many of us, November marks the beginning of a season packed with obligations. Rather than rushing through the season, imagine if you used this time to reconnect with what truly matters. Imagine setting clear boundaries, simplifying your schedule and making space for the experiences that genuinely fulfill you.

Saying “no” this month is about honouring your own needs, creating a foundation of balance and choosing to step into the end of the year with clarity and purpose.

Why is saying no so transformative?

Each time you choose to say no to something that no longer serves you, you nourish yourself and reclaim a piece of your energy. It is an act of self-respect, a decision to prioritise your well-being over expectations and obligations.

By saying no, you are actually saying yes to all the things that light you up.

Saying no can be challenging, especially if you are someone who feels responsible for the happiness of others. 

Let me share a gentle reminder with you: each “no” helps you protect your time and energy. Each “no” creates space to be fully present for the things that bring you joy and help you grow. Think of each boundary as a small, sacred gift to yourself—a way of choosing a life that feels rich with meaning.

The energy of November invites introspection. A time to slow down, reflect and reconnect with yourself. With the holiday season on the horizon (this can be seen with all the festive decorations that are now being put on display), the is no time like now to check in with yourself and assess what truly matters.

Saying no now allows you to enter the holiday season with a sense of calm and balance, rather than feeling stretched thin by endless obligations.

Imagine how it would feel to step into the end of the year with your energy intact, your mind clear, and your heart light. Saying no is your pathway to a more grounded, present and joyful season.

Before you start saying no, it helps to identify anything that is currently depleting your energy. 

Here are 4 signs that a commitment or obligation may be pulling from your energy reserves:

Feelings of Resentment or Dread: If you notice a sense of resentment or dread toward something on your to-do list, it may be time to let it go.

Saying Yes from a place of Guilt or Fear: Agreeing to things because you don’t want to disappoint others can lead to burnout. Remind yourself that it is more than okay to prioritise your own well-being.

Feeling Overwhelmed or Exhausted: If your schedule is packed to the brim where you have no time for yourself, it is a clear sign that some boundaries may be needed.

Distraction from Your True Priorities: Is a certain commitment keeping you from focusing on things that genuinely matter to you? This month, give yourself permission to realign.

Saying no can feel unfamiliar, especially if you are used to saying yes to everything and everyone. Here are 5 simple and practical ways to start setting boundaries with confidence and grace:

When someone asks for your time or help, pause before responding. Taking a moment gives you time to consider whether this is something you genuinely want to commit to. If it feels misaligned, don’t be afraid to say no.

Keep it simple and kind. Saying no doesn’t have to be complicated.  A straightforward “I’m afraid I have other plans” or “That won’t work for me right now” is enough. You don’t need to over-explain. A simple, kind response often communicates your boundary more effectively than a lengthy explanation.

Focus on what you gain each time you say no. With each NO are creating room for rest, joy and connection. Focus on the positive impact your boundaries have: more energy, more peace and a deeper sense of alignment.

Honour your needs with no guilt. Guilt often sneaks in when we set boundaries, but remember that taking care of yourself is not selfish. It’s an act of kindness toward yourself and others. When you’re well-rested and energised, you are able to show up for the people you care about with more grace & ease.

Consider an alternative (if you want), as sometimes it can feel good to suggest another way to help. For example, you could recommend someone else for the task or suggest a different time or day that would suit you better. Only do this if it feels right for you.

Imagine a month where you feel spacious, free and energised. By saying no to the things that drain you, you are creating space for all the things that truly light you up. Think of what you would like to add into this new space: meaningful connections, restful moments, a new book for your library of life or time spent on personal growth.

November is your opportunity to let go of all the things that no longer serve you, making room for what genuinely brings you joy.

Ready to embrace the power of no?

I invite you to take a small challenge: for each day in November, practice saying no in a small way. Maybe you set a boundary with your time, or perhaps you decline an invitation that feels draining. Notice how each “no” brings a sense of relief, empowerment or clarity.

For years, I found it extremely difficult to say no, always worried about disappointing others. But over time, I realised that saying yes to everything led to resentment, exhaustion and a sense of disconnect from my own values. Setting boundaries allowed me to reclaim my time, energy and peace of mind. Now, every no I say comes from a place of self-respect and alignment.

Saying no may feel difficult at first but remember that it’s a practice. Each time you set a boundary, you are learning to honour your own needs and step towards greater clarity, love and joy.

This November, give yourself the gift of boundaries.

As you welcome November, treat it as a time to reclaim your energy, simplify your schedule and realign with what truly matters to you.

By embracing boundaries and saying no to what drains us, we are giving ourselves the gift of presence, peace and renewed energy.

Choose to make this month one of clarity and intention, so you can end the year feeling grounded, grateful and ready for the exhilarating adventures ahead.

What are you saying no to this November?