When NOT giving away your last Rolo can be life-changing.

Do you love someone enough to give them your last Rolo?

As a child, my dad often would give me his last Rolo, chocolate, or biscuit—his last piece of something delicious. Completely baffled, I asked him, “How can you just give it away?”

He smiled and said, “When you’re a mother, you’ll understand.”

Well… I’m a mother now, and honestly? I still don’t understand! 😂

As a mum, you are constantly giving. You give your time, energy, patience, and often even your last bite of dessert. 

But what happens when there’s nothing left for you?

Here’s an unpopular opinion:

Your kids do not always have to come first 100% of the time. 

If you feel like you are being stretched in multiple directions, overworked (and not even paid!)  and that you always have to be the one to sacrifice, there’s one magic word that can give you back your sanity: No.

“No, I will not be able to bring your lunch to school that you forgot again for the 100th time (when you just really want to shower).” 

“No, I can’t get up from eating my dinner to get you a knife, fork, cup (when you have already been on your feet the whole day and are starving hungry).”

“No, I will not be able to help you with your school project that you were given a month ago and is due tomorrow, and you haven't even started it. (Your bed is screaming your name).”

Here is another tip: NO is a complete sentence. You don’t need to explain or justify yourself. 

And yes, I know—it’s hard. Saying no can feel selfish, harsh, or even scary at first. But setting boundaries isn’t about being mean—it’s about being kind to yourself.

Since I am giving out tips anyway, I’ll throw another one in: saying no to something simply because you do not want to be doing it, even if you can do it, is also ok, and you do not have to come up with an excuse!

Let me say it again, louder for the mums in the back:

It is okay to say no to something just because you do not want to. 

Even if you can do it. 

Someone asked you to make a meal for a new family that just moved here, but you don't want to? “So nice, mazel tov! I am not going to be able to right now.” 

Your kid wants you to drive them somewhere that they can take the bus to, but you planned a date with your pyjamas and book?  “I know it’s cold outside, darling. Here are your gloves, hat, and scarf. Hope you have fun tonight!”

A neighbour asks to borrow your car, but you do not want other people using it?

“I would love to help you, but not going to be able to this time.”

Saying no, especially to your children, is showing them where your boundaries are and how to treat you. It sends a clear message about what is and isn’t acceptable. It also allows you to prioritise your peace, energy, and mental well-being. It’s about choosing rest over burnout, peace over people-pleasing, and self-care over guilt.

Here’s how saying no will change your life: 

1. Less Overwhelm & Stress  Your never-ending to-do list suddenly shrinks, and you will have time and energy for the things that you actually care about. 

2. More Time for YOU  Whether it is 10 minutes of peace, a hobby you love, or simply getting to sit down with your coffee while it’s still hot, by saying no, you will be creating space for YOU.

3. Better Mental & Physical Health  Chronic stress affects everything, from anxiety levels to sleep quality. Protecting your time and energy means protecting your well-being.

4. A Great Example for Your Kids  You will be role modelling for your children that it is okay to set boundaries and prioritise themselves when needed.   

Saying no may feel uncomfortable initially, but the more you do it, the easier it will get.  Do you have any stories of how saying no has helped you that you would like to share? Leave a comment below and share it with us.