(((Hugs)))
Thank you for posting this thread. I had to say "No" yesterday to a family event. When sending the text message, I thought of this thread and how I learned to do these things. I used to feel several days of self blame, shame and unworthiness after something less important.
Today I'm able to move onward and forward with trusting myself to make good decisions.
Hang in there!! It does get better!!!
We each have our own path for a reason. One day at a time.