The 28 Diaries | Lesson One: Protecting My Peace 🖤

✨ Lesson One: The Power of Saying “No” 💅🏽

I used to think saying “no” was selfish. To men, to friends, to family, to opportunities — if I didn’t show up, I felt like I was letting someone down. And if I did say no, I’d spiral into FOMO, wondering what I might’ve missed. But here’s the reality I’ve learned stepping into 28: every time I said yes when my soul meant no, I left myself drained, disconnected, and honestly… not even my true self.

At 28, “no” has become my glow-up word. Recently, I’ve been putting it into practice in ways that feel protective and powerful:

• On a date, I set the boundary that the night would end at dinner — not at someone else’s apartment. ✨

• In co-parenting, I’ve gotten comfortable saying no when something crosses the line of what I’ll tolerate. Protecting my peace protects my kids, too.

• And even in the small things — like telling myself, “Girl, put down that bag of chips. Whole Foods or not, it’s not sitting cute on my stomach tomorrow.” 💁🏽‍♀️

What I’ve realized is this: “no” isn’t rejection, it’s protection. It’s not shutting doors, it’s keeping your energy sacred. Every no creates space for a better yes — the kind of yes that lights you up instead of wearing you down.

So here’s my first lesson at 28: stop being afraid of “no.” Say it with love, say it with power, and say it knowing that it’s a form of self-respect.

Forever in my diary, Storm 🖤

🪄 Storm’s Ritual: Protect Your Peace

• Crystal: Black Tourmaline (for grounding + protection).

• Affirmation: “No is a full sentence. My peace is priceless.”

• Mini Spell: Before a tough convo, spray your favorite perfume on your wrists and collarbone. When you say “no,” let the scent remind you that you’re irresistible and untouchable.