The Yes Woman

In a world that teaches girls to become Yes Women, learning to say ‘no’ is a radical feat.

For most of her life, Australian journalist Grace Jennings-Edquist had been keen to please. From school to career, in her appearance, friendships, and even everyday interactions, she was always anxious not to disappoint. Becoming a mother finally tipped her over the edge and she wound up in a psych ward. Grace could no longer avoid the truth: she was chronically addicted to saying yes. And she was not alone.

Grace discovered that, in a phenomenon that crosses class, culture and sexuality, Yes Women are everywhere and there’s a bit of Yes Woman in just about everyone. Interviewing scores of people in Australia and overseas, both ordinary women and experts, Grace gained a deeper understanding of the patriarchal origins of the Yes Woman, and developed a plan to seize control of her own life.

The Yes Woman is a practical guide to recognising your own Yes Woman tendencies, measuring their cost on your health, and resisting that need to please. It won’t be easy, but it’ll be worth it.

‘Brilliant ... what every career-oriented woman needs on her bookshelf.’ Michelle Andrews and Zara McDonald, Shameless podcast

‘A brilliantly written, empathetic plea to women, to reclaim their time, energy, power, agency and lust for life, by learning to say no.’ Lil Ahenkan, @flex.mami