As moms, saying no can feel difficult—whether it’s saying no to others or even to ourselves. But if there’s one thing I’ve learned on my journey to embrace Deep Work, it’s that boundaries are essential for focusing on what really matters.

This past fall, I learned this lesson the hard way. I got caught up in the idea of giving my daughter every opportunity to learn and grow, and I signed her up for dance classes, toddler Spanish, and even a reading curriculum. I thought I was doing something great, but instead, it left us both stressed. She had more tantrums, I felt like I was failing, and it all came to a head when she refused to get dressed for dance class.

That moment made me realize I needed to pause. I canceled all her extracurriculars for the next week and focused on simply spending time together after preschool. The result? Both of us felt calmer and happier.

In this post, I’ll share how setting boundaries and learning to say no has helped me let go of distractions and focus on the things that bring joy and connection.

1. Recognize When You’re Saying Yes for the Wrong Reasons

Sometimes, we say yes because we feel like we should, not because it’s what’s best. Reflect on your commitments and ask yourself if they align with your values or if they’re driven by external pressure.

2. Practice Saying No with Grace

Learning to say no is empowering. It’s not about failing; it’s about making space for what truly matters.

3. Make Space for What Matters

By saying no to unnecessary commitments, you create room for meaningful moments. For me, this meant focusing on quality time with my daughter after preschool without the stress of overscheduling.

Letting go of distractions and saying no isn’t always easy, but it’s one of the most powerful steps toward a more intentional life. This is how we can create space for what truly matters.