Sometimes Saying No Is the Right Choice!
We don’t always realize that refusing something can be the best decision we make. Most of us grow up surrounded by expectations—what we should do, who we should be, and what path we should take. But what happens when you realize those expectations aren’t right? Refusing to follow the path others set can feel like rebellion, but sometimes it’s exactly what leads you to a more fulfilling life. I’ve been there, and I know firsthand that saying no to other people’s plans is sometimes the only way to say yes to yourself.
Sometimes saying no to others’ expectations is the first step to finding what you truly want. Refusing can open doors you never expected...
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In this episode: Sean and Anne discuss the concept of refusing the call in the hero's journey. They share personal stories of refusing the expectations placed on them and choosing their own paths. Sean talks about refusing the call to pursue a career in music and instead going to law school, while Anne shares her experience of refusing the call to study engineering and pursuing her passion for music and education.
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Refusing the Call Doesn’t Always Mean Fear
In stories like Joseph Campbell’s Hero’s Journey, we often hear about “refusing the call” as a moment of fear or hesitation. But what if refusing the call is really about refusing other people’s expectations? Sometimes, the life others want for us doesn’t match what we want for ourselves. And saying no to their version of success can feel scary—like we’re letting people down. But walking away from the wrong path is not failure—it’s clarity.
Why Expectations Can Lead You Away from Yourself
I was expected to be an engineer because I was good at math and science. It seemed like the “smart” choice. But deep down, I loved music, horses, and teaching. Still, I followed the engineering path for years because I didn’t want to disappoint my parents. Like so many people, I thought meeting expectations would make me happy—but instead, I felt disconnected from what I really wanted. Refusing their expectations wasn’t easy, but it was the first step toward finding myself.
How Saying No Can Lead to Something Better
Sometimes, refusing to follow expectations doesn’t mean giving up everything—it can mean finding a middle path. For me, that middle path was discovering computer-aided design (CAD), which combined creativity with technical skills. It wasn’t what anyone planned for me, but it was a way to align more closely with my passions. Refusing to stay on the path others chose for me led to opportunities I never would have imagined if I had just gone along with what I was “supposed” to do.
When you say no to expectations that don’t fit, you say yes to a life that feels real and meaningful.
What Happens When You Stop Living for Others?
Sean’s story is another powerful example. Even though law school was the expected path, he felt pulled toward music. He tried to follow the rules, but the desire to create music never left. When he finally stepped away from other people’s expectations, he opened the door to a career that felt right for him. Sometimes the scariest thing—refusing the life others planned—is the thing that lets you finally feel free.
What Expectations Are You Ready to Refuse?
If you’ve been living under the weight of other people’s plans, ask yourself what it would feel like to let go of those expectations. What would you choose if no one else’s opinion mattered? Refusing the path others laid out for you isn’t selfish—it’s an act of self-respect. So maybe it’s time to start saying no to what’s expected and yes to what’s true for you.
Thanks for reading - Anne
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Anne Ganguzza is a Motivational Coach, Influencer, and award-winning Podcaster & Speaker. based in Southern California.
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