Mike DomitrzPresident, Author, and Speaker on Respect, The Center for Respect, Inc. · Author & Speaker on Respect for Schools, Corporations, & the Military since 1990 (has reached

Saying 'No'. #centerforrespect #mikedomitrz #selfrespect #healthyboundaries #askfirst #consent

30 Nov 2024 · 0 min

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In this brief monologue, speaker Mike Domitrz (identified by the video’s hashtags) explores the common tendency to answer "yes" when we truly want to say "no." He identifies the primary reason as a fear of disappointing a partner, rooted in the belief that saying no is mean. Domitrz reframes saying no as an act of kindness, honesty, and self‑respect, arguing that it supports healthier boundaries and genuine consent. He contrasts superficial niceness—often perceived as fake—with true respect, emphasizing that honest communication benefits both individuals in a relationship.

I wanted to say no. I said yes instead. Does that happen a little bit or a lot? What's the number one reason people say yes when they want to say no? And here's it: they don't think it's pity in the moment. They think it is. I don't want to disappoint my partner because somebody taught them that saying no was mean. Saying no is not mean. It's one of the kindest things you will ever do for yourself and your partner because you're actually being honest with your partner. Life is not about being nice. I'd rather know you were respectful than nice because how many agree nice can be fake?