The Art of Saying No: Setting Boundaries Without Guilt

Global Desi Women

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In this empowering episode of Global Desi Women, your host Arti Solanki—business coach, real estate broker, and author of the book Hindu Rituals is joined by her incredible co-hosts Bhavana Shelley, a seasoned consultant; Bhawna Luthra, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist; and Swetha Reddy, a homemaker with an MBA in Finance and Marketing. Together, they dive into a topic that resonates deeply with many women, especially those in the Desi community: The Art of Saying No: Setting Boundaries Without Guilt.
Saying no can be one of the hardest things to do, particularly for women raised in cultures that emphasize selflessness, family obligations, and prioritizing others’ needs over their own. Whether it’s agreeing to take on extra work, committing to family events, or simply declining social invitations, the fear of being perceived as selfish or rude often outweighs personal well-being. This episode unpacks why it’s so hard to say no, the cultural expectations that reinforce this struggle, and how we can shift our mindset to view boundary-setting as a form of self-respect rather than rejection.
Arti and her co-hosts share personal stories, professional insights, and actionable strategies for mastering the art of saying no. Bhavana offers a consultant’s perspective on balancing professional commitments while maintaining personal priorities. Bhawna sheds light on the psychological impact of overcommitting and the importance of setting mental health boundaries. Swetha, as a homemaker provides practical tips for managing time and energy across multiple roles without guilt.
The discussion explores how saying no is not a rejection of others but a reclamation of your time and energy. You’ll learn how to gracefully decline requests, communicate boundaries clearly, and handle the guilt that often accompanies saying no. The co-hosts also discuss the power of reframing the word “no” as an opportunity to say “yes” to what truly matters—be it self-care, family, career goals, or personal passions.
Whether you’ve struggled with overcommitting, felt guilty for putting yourself first, or just want to feel more confident in setting boundaries, this episode is packed with wisdom, encouragement, and practical advice. Join Arti, Bhavana, Bhawna, and Swetha as they inspire you to break free from the cycle of endless obligations and create a life that aligns with your values and priorities.
Tune in to Global Desi Women and learn how to embrace the power of no—without the guilt.
Thank you so much for joining us on today’s episode of Global Desi Women! We’ve unpacked the challenges and rewards of learning to say no, set healthy boundaries, and prioritize our well-being—all without guilt.

Remember, saying no is not about being selfish; it’s about honoring your time, energy, and values. The art of saying no takes practice, but each step you take brings you closer to a life that truly reflects your priorities.

A big thank you to my wonderful co-hosts—Bhavana Shelley, Bhawna Luthra, and Swetha Reddy—for sharing their insights and personal experiences today. Swetha, with your MBA in Finance and Marketing, you bring such a unique and grounded perspective, and I love having you as part of these conversations.

If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with someone who might need this message. Don’t forget to subscribe to Global Desi Women on your favorite podcast app, and leave us a review—it really helps us reach more amazing women like you.

Until next time, stay true to yourself and keep creating space for the things that truly matter. Take care, and we’ll see you in the next episode!

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