Have you ever agreed to an extra shift, helped a coworker, or taken on more responsibility—even when you were already exhausted?
If you’re in healthcare, chances are you’ve said “yes” when you really wanted to say “no.”
You tell yourself:
• They need me. I don’t want to let them down.
• It’s just one more shift. I’ll rest later.
• If I say no, they might not ask me again.
At first, it seems fine. But over time, the cost of constantly saying “yes” adds up:
• Exhaustion: You’re running on fumes, yet you keep pushing.
• Resentment: You start feeling frustrated with your job, coworkers, or even yourself.
• Lack of control: It feels like everyone else decides how you spend your time.
• Burnout: The work you once loved starts to drain you.
Why Do We Keep Saying Yes?
Healthcare workers are wired to help. We’re trained to step up, be team players, and prioritize patients over ourselves.
But the truth is: your well-being matters too.
Saying “no” isn’t selfish. It’s smart. It allows you to bring your best self to work instead of constantly running on empty.
How to Start Protecting Your Time (Without Feeling Guilty)
1. Pause Before You Respond
Instead of automatically saying yes, buy yourself time. Try:
• “Let me check my schedule and get back to you.”
• “I need to think about that—can I let you know later?”
2. Check In With Yourself
Ask: If I say yes, what am I saying no to?
• More sleep?
• Time with family?
• A moment to recharge?
3. Practice Simple Boundaries
You don’t need a long explanation. Keep it short and clear:
• “I can’t take that shift, but I hope you find someone.”
• “I’m at my max this week. I won’t be able to help this time.”
4. Start Small
If saying “no” feels uncomfortable, start with low-stakes situations. Build the muscle, and it will get easier.
5. Remember: Protecting Your Energy Helps Everyone
When you set boundaries, you show up as a better nurse, coworker, and human. You’re not running on fumes. You’re present, focused, and able to care for others without feeling depleted.
Your challenge this week:
Pause before you say yes.
Check in with yourself.
And remember—every “yes” to something is a “no” to something else.
Ready to set better boundaries and feel more in control of your time? Coaching can help.
Reminder: as part of the benefits offered at Logan Health, employees get free coaching sessions. You can book a coaching session here.
Or, if you are not a Logan Health Employee, you can book a consultation to learn how to work with me here.