The influence our peers, family, women, mothers, co-workers, bosses and society at large have on us consciously or subconsciously is undeniable. From the very moment we are born to the day we die, someone wants something from us, expects us to do or be a certain way. The common social mould is predictable and convenient for everyone but us, men.

Compliance is expected, not rewarded and taken for granted, and thus nonconformity and disobedience becomes something we avoid as to not ruffle the waters or not be positively perceived. Being agreeable, politically correct and always saying yes to be "nice" is pushed into our subconscious so hard that it becomes a default reaction even to events and requests that we realize are not in our best interests.

There is a word, a powerful word, that when used generously and meaningfully, will put a man back in charge of his immediate boundaries, his environment, will exude power and gain advantage in many life situations. When using this word, a man will find himself not doing the things that are not his interests any more, gain respect from everyone he comes into contact with and reclaim his masculinity.

The word is: No and you should use it more often.

Next time you are asked to do something. Say No. Go a ahead and do it. Whether it's your girlfriend, plate or even mother asking you to do something - Just say no. You don't justify your reply, you don't explain *why not" and certainly you do not react to the mini shitstrom that it may cause. Just say no and carry on with your day.

Next time a co-worker or a boss asks you if you have a moment, don't just spring up and say sure. Say No. Say you are busy at the moment and you'll come by later. Be brave. Say No. Do it with a smile.

Practice saying No on a daily basis. Do not be in the default agreeing mode and accommodating mode. It will do wonders in you personal and professional life. Break peoples expectations with this powerful word. Strengthen our boundaries and attend to your desires, not the expectations of the environment you are in.

Just something that was on my mind and wanted to share with my fellow men.