“The Power of Saying No” by Dr. Vanessa Patrick is a must-read for anyone who struggles to turn down requests and feels guilty about letting others down. Dr. Patrick delves into the emotional and psychological reasons behind this difficulty, examining cultural, societal, and gender norms that make saying no feel so challenging.

What sets this book apart is how Dr. Patrick blends thorough academic research with practical, real-world advice. She not only explains “why” it’s hard to say no but also provides a clear solution. Her concept of “empowered refusal”—I love it!—equips you with the tools to say no confidently, without harming your relationships or compromising your self-worth. It’s all about creating boundaries that feel right and are respected.

As an academic, I appreciated the depth of research, but this book is accessible to everyone. Filled with relatable examples, it serves as a practical guide for managing life's demands—teaching you how to say no, prioritize what matters, and still maintain strong relationships. Dr. Patrick doesn’t just offer theory; she gives actionable steps to help you avoid the stress of those exhausting “bad yeses.”

This book is a gamechanger for anyone who often finds themselves overcommitted. “The Power of Saying No” will provide the confidence and tools you need to set healthy boundaries, freeing up time and energy for the things that truly matter.

A huge thanks to NetGalley, the publisher & author for the opportunity to read this advance copy of this book.

Powerful and so informative for people embarking upon the boundary journey. I found this book so helpful and clear in its information.

Thank you to NetGalley and to the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I requested this book back when I was in my personal development Era but unfortunately only just now got to it. It helped me realize that maybe I don't have a problem with saying yes to too much. I couldn't relate to much of it and a lot of the practices won't necessarily work for my line of work/life. It was very well written and it does seem like there's some solid evidence and resources in the book though.

Learn how to say no and stop saying yes when you don't want to. Learn how to prioritize yourself and what matters most to you. This is a good book with action steps to learn how to do just that. Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for an ARC.

Who is good at setting boundaries and saying no? Not me! I really did need this book and found there be plenty of guidance and supportive anecdotes throughout, I am excited to put some of these practices in place so that I can learn to say no and stand up for myself and my boundaries when necessary.

I love the concept behind this book, but it felt like a subtle brag the entire time. I love women who accomplish things but this was more of that than helpful tools

We are regularly asked for books on empowering people to set boundaries and learn to stop people pleasing, and this one fits the bill. It is a nice mix of anecdote and actual research, which makes for a fascinating blend of information. I will definitely purchase for the collection!

The Power of Saying No : The New Science of How to Say No that Puts You in Charge of Your Life is an empowering self help book that encourages you to make positive changes in your life. The author uses stories, anecdotes, and research to get her point across. There is plenty of guidance and discussion to help you set your own boundaries and learn when and how to say a firm 'NO' to anything that is not appealing or good for you. A good book for those who struggle to say 'NO' and take control of their own lives.

A great text on empowering the reader on setting boundaries and saying No to things that don't matter. Thank you to Sourcebooks and Netgalley for the ARC

The Power of Saying No is the culminating project of the author's years of research into the science behind saying no. This book was a delightful mix of research and anecdote to bring the science and theory into the practical. I liked how the sections were organised, and each part used a mix of research, discussion and guidance for those of us who struggle with 'no' in our own lives. I would recommend this book for anyone who likes to understand the why and how behind issues and concepts, and not just being told someone's opinion.

This was an honest NetGalley review.