When Bravery Looks Like Saying No

🎤 Behind the Roar | October 4, 2025

This week’s theme has been all about bravery—the everyday kind that doesn’t need a stage or applause. The kind that shows up quietly in our choices, our boundaries, and our willingness to speak up even when it’s uncomfortable.

Ironically, I spent most of this week not living that message.

At work, I had the perfect opportunity to say no to taking on something that wasn’t mine to own. I felt that nudge in my gut, that tiny whisper of “this isn’t your lane.” But instead of honoring it, I said yes—trying to be helpful, trying to smooth things over, trying to make it easier for everyone else.

Fast-forward a few days, and that “small” issue turned into a much larger one. What could have been a simple team discussion is now a project I’m facilitating—on top of my regular workload, and without the bandwidth I need to do it well.

It’s not lost on me how often bravery is mistaken for saying yes—for stepping in, showing up, and taking charge. But this week reminded me that bravery sometimes means the exact opposite: stepping back. Saying no can be the most courageous act of all.

So if you’re reading this and feeling stretched thin, here’s your gentle reminder:
🌸 You are allowed to set boundaries. You are allowed to let something go. You are allowed to say no—and still be brave.

Here’s to learning our lessons out loud, to owning our stumbles, and to remembering that courage isn’t always about doing more. Sometimes it’s about doing less—with purpose.

— With Gratitude,
Ronda 💛

📖 Want More?

Bravery doesn’t always mean charging forward—it often means choosing yourself, your peace, and your priorities. In Roar Like a Woman, I share 35 empowering words to help you stand strong, set boundaries, and live with courage and purpose.

👉 Grab your signed copy of Roar Like A Woman and keep building your brave, one word at a time.