Kelley Powell

In modern Western culture, saying no can be akin to declaring that orangutans shouldn’t be saved or husbands shouldn’t do laundry. From a young age, we’re encouraged to put our hands up more, participate more, do more. When we ask people how they are and they respond, “busy,” we assume they are well. After all, only healthy, active people with a life are busy. Equating busyness with happiness is perhaps even truer during the holidays.

No, you don't have to clean the house before your friends come over.