As I’ve gotten older, I’ve started questioning why every “no” needs a good excuse. Sometimes nothing is wrong, no one has behaved badly, and there’s no deeper issue to solve. Sometimes I simply don’t want to—and maybe that deserves a place in the conversation.

Saying no can feel selfish when you have spent years being the dependable woman everyone counts on. Learn how thoughtful boundaries can protect your time, preserve your energy and help prevent burnout before exhaustion makes the decision for you.

Saying no doesn’t require a lengthy explanation or apology. These ten practical responses can help you protect your time, communicate boundaries and stop accepting responsibilities that don’t belong to you.