I spent a long time learning to say "no" without feeling guilty, and it turned out to be one of the most liberating skills in adulthood. Every time you say "no" to something you don't need, you're saying "yes" to your time, energy, and peace of mind. People who truly love you won't lose respect for you because you're being honest. I remember the first time I said "no" to an unnecessary meeting and spent the evening reading instead. No one was offended, and I breathed a sigh of relief. A small "no" every day saves you from a big "I'm so tired" at the end of the week. And what is more difficult for you — to refuse someone or then regret agreeing?