As you may already know, our world often equates self-worth with constant availability and compliance.

So, whether you like it or not, you must learn to say no in moments that deserve saying no, especially if you’re a Gen Z woman navigating the complexities of modern life.

But the question that often comes up is: Is it always easy to say no? How can you embrace the power of “no” without the accompanying guilt?

Here’s a detailed guide to help you learn to explore this salient power you have, but first, let’s talk about the struggle itself.

ALSO READ: 5 family boundaries everyone needs for a happier life

Understanding the Struggle

The truth is that a significant number of Gen Z individuals find it challenging to set boundaries, and there are available studies to prove this. One recent study even found that 64% of Gen Z individuals reported difficulty in saying “no.” This struggle is often rooted in societal expectations that encourage women to be accommodating, leading to internalised guilt when asserting personal needs. But well, it’s possible to break away from this norm. You just need to learn a few strategies here and there, and you’ll be good to go. Here, let’s run you through some of the strategies for setting boundaries without guilt.

Reframe “No” as Self-Respect

It all begins with knowing the real meaning of no. Unlike what we’ve grown to believe, saying no isn’t selfish. Instead, it’s a declaration of self-respect. So, you must recognise that declining requests doesn’t necessarily make you disrespectful or rude. Instead, it allows you to prioritise your well-being and commitments that truly matter.

Start Small

Nothing beats starting small when making major life changes like this one. So, you can always begin by setting boundaries in low-stakes situations. This helps you build the confidence you need before moving to asserting yourself in other, more significant scenarios.

Use Clear and Compassionate Language

While it’s recommended to communicate boundaries, you must also learn to apply the tools of clarity and kindness while doing so. Don’t just leave the asker hanging. Instead, use polite but emphatic phrases like “I appreciate the offer, but I need to focus on my current priorities”. Phrases like this communicate your disagreement while conveying respect for both yourself and others.

---

Join Our WhatsApp Group

Don’t miss out on any real-time information. Join our WhatsApp group to stay updated.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN

---

Anticipate Resistance

ALSO READ: 5 effective ways to teach kids boundaries without hard punishments

Understand that not everyone will respond positively to your boundaries, especially if they benefited from your previous compliance. So, they’ll resist. These resistances may come in different degrees, but you must stand firm, knowing that your needs are valid. In the end, everybody will come to terms with your boundaries because you really matter.

Practice Self-Compassion

It’s normal to feel discomfort when setting boundaries. Acknowledge these feelings without judgment and remind yourself of the importance of self-care. This way, you’ll more easily bear any feeling of discomfort knowing that you’re doing it in your best interest.

Have you ever wondered why some medications come with instructions to take them with food? You might think it’s just a suggestion, but there’s a good reason behind it. Some medicines work better, or are safer when taken with a meal.   

To be more clear, here’s why it’s important to take certain medications with food.

ALSO READ: NAFDAC calls on patent medicine dealers to stop selling inferior drugs

1. It helps prevent stomach irritation

Some medicines can be harsh on your stomach lining, leading to irritation, nausea, or even ulcers. Taking them with food helps create a protective layer in your stomach, reducing these risks.  

2. Food helps with absorption

Some medications need fat or certain nutrients in food to be properly absorbed into your bloodstream. Without food, they may not work as effectively. 

Examples of such medicines are the popular anti-malarial and anti-parasitic medications.

Eating before taking such medications can help slow down their movement through the gastrointestinal tract, allowing for more effective absorption and distribution of these medicines in the body.

3. It can help reduce nausea and vomiting

Certain medicines can make you feel queasy or even cause vomiting. Taking them with food can ease the discomfort by slowing down how quickly they enter your system.  

RECOMMENDED: 5 Nigerian foods that could be slowly killing you

---

Join Our WhatsApp Group

Don’t miss out on any real-time information. Join our WhatsApp group to stay updated.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN

---

4. Reduces blood sugar drops

Some medications, especially for diabetes, can lower blood sugar levels too much if taken on an empty stomach, leading to dizziness, weakness, or even fainting.  

5. It can reduce side effects of strong medications

Some treatments, like chemotherapy drugs, can be harsh on the body. Eating before taking them helps manage their side effects, making the experience less difficult.  

Now you know why you need to eat before taking certain medications. What this means is, whenever you are given any medication, ensure to follow the instructions before taking them.

This can help their effectiveness and not leave you with more problems than the one you’re trying to solve with the medication. 

Have you ever experienced side effects from taking medicine on an empty stomach?

 EXPLORE: 9 everyday foods that are slowly destroying your liver

Igbo traditional weddings, also known as Igba Nkwu Nwanyi (wine-carrying ceremony), are one of the most vibrant and meaningful marital rites in Nigeria.

The ceremony is rooted in deep cultural values, and each step that leads to it reflects the rich heritage of the Igbo people. Some of these steps will differ from one Igbo village community to another, but they are still similar in nature. Here’s how it all unfolds:

RECOMMENDED: 20 gorgeous outfit ideas every 2025 Yoruba bride will love

1. Introduction (Iku Aka / Knock on the Door):

The groom’s family visits the bride’s family to express interest in marriage. It’s a formal introduction and sets the tone for future meetings.

2. Investigation (Ijụ Ajụjụ / Background Check):

The bride’s family conducts inquiries into the groom’s background, family reputation, and intentions.

3. Bride Price Negotiation (Ime Ego):

Families gather to discuss and agree on the bride price, which may include money, drinks, and items listed in a traditional bride price list.

ALSO READ: 20 Asoebi style inspirations for your next wedding

4. Consent Ceremony (Wine Carrying / Igba Nkwu):

The bride officially presents the groom to her people. She offers him palm wine in a public setting to show her acceptance. This is the highlight of the wedding. For this, brides often wear George wrappers, coral beads, and beautifully styled blouses with headpieces or beaded crowns.

Grooms typically wear Isiagu (lion head) tops with red caps, wrappers, or trousers. Many couples now blend tradition with modern fashion, reflecting their personal and cultural identity while keeping the regal Igbo essence alive.

---

Join Our WhatsApp Group

Don’t miss out on any real-time information. Join our WhatsApp group to stay updated.

CLICK HERE TO JOIN

---

Here are a few Igba Nkwu attires that 2025 Igbo brides can get inspiration from:

YOU WILL LOVE: 22 stunning civil court wedding dresses for Nigerian brides-to-be