Saying "no" isn't a disrespectful act. Speaker: Dr. Gabor Maté Source: Dr. Gabor Maté Reveals The Unlikely Link Between Stress, Trauma & Disease | High Performance Podcast This one is so hard, because I think nearly everyone in society is at least a little bit triggered by the word "no." This is especially true when it comes to parental interactions with their children. It feels defiant and rude, and it goes hand in hand with our desire to control our children. Again, something that has been passed down from traditional parenting strategies. While the "no's" can be frustrating, and yes, they can even be disrespectful at times, our children need to learn to say "no" and advocate for themselves. They need to learn when it's appropriate for them to stand up for themselves and not be in a constant mode of people-pleasing. If they don't learn this skill, they'll end up as burned-out adults who are constantly putting everyone else's needs (and even wants) ahead of their own to their detriment. And I don't think any of us want that for our kids. Share this post with another parent who needs to hear it!