Isn't it interesting that "no" is one of the first words we learn, but for some of us, that word gets more difficult to say with age?

I can't put my finger on the exact moment or reason, but sometime during adolescence and into early adulthood I assigned a negative connotation to all instances of saying no. And in the rare case that the two-letter word did escape my lips, you better believe I had the world's best, most convincing explanation. Here's a glimpse of my thought process:

A friend asks me to hang out on a night I'm too busy and stressed to even enjoy it, much less be good company? Saying no is selfish, and they might think I'm blowing them off.

My boss asks me to take on an extra assignment I don't have time for during exam week? Saying no would show weakness and be a sign that I'm incapable.

The guy I sit beside in class who's two years younger than me and barely my height asks me on a date? Saying no might hurt his confidence and make him angry. Not to mention, we're going to sit beside each other for the rest of the semester. Can you say awkward? (I would just like to note that I did say "no" to this ... two days after saying "yes.")

You get the point.

I recently began to realize that the questions I'm being asked are getting harder, and the consequences of my responses are becoming more significant. I also got to a point where I felt spread so thin that I couldn't give 100 percent to each activity and responsibility a had taken on.

I was neglecting people and things I really cared about. I was neglecting myself, all for the sake of projecting a facade that I had it all together, I could do everything, and I had to do everything in order to prove how capable I was to myself and everyone else.

I think some of this comes from my natural desire to stay busy, to try new things, and to take on a challenge.

However, I'm slowly beginning to learn that saying no isn't selfish, it doesn't mean you're not fun, and it doesn't make you weak. Sometimes, saying no shows greater strength than the alternative juggling act.

And yes. I know this is obvious in some cases. Like when the guy you just met asks if you want to go snort coke in the bathroom, "no" is a logical, smart answer.

But, sometimes, the lines are blurry, and I don't think many of us realize we're taking on more than we can effectively handle until it's too late.

Saying no is something I'm actively working on and still struggle with at times. But it's also one of those things that gets easier with practice. This is probably because of the relief I feel and improved quality of work that comes with an appropriate life balance.

Also, as a side note, your true friends and reasonable bosses are going to be understanding of your obligations, especially as a student.

Plus, when you say no at the appropriate times, you'll be able to take advantage of better opportunities when they come your way.

A motto I've adopted recently from my fantastic managing editor at Odyssey is, "Remember, [blank] is important, but it's not worth your mental health." In other words, be responsible, but also know your limits because we all have them, and knowing what they are and how to manage them shows maturity and professionalism.

If you're like me, and saying no makes you feel like a failure at times, I challenge you to take a step back. Be realistic about the responsibilities and activities you've taken on.

Ask yourself what's necessary, what's important to you, and what can go.

Remember, it's perfectly possible to say no and be the G.O.A.T. simultaneously.