Tired of saying "yes" when you really mean "no"?
If you're overwhelmed, overcommitted, and stuck in a cycle of people-pleasing and perfectionism, you're not alone. Saying "yes" to everything doesn't make life better-it just makes it busier, often at the expense of what truly matters.
In Ditch the Ditty, globally-recognized change experts Lindsey Godwin, Molly McGuigan, and Miriam Novotny invite you to pause, take a breath, and get honest about where your time and energy are going. With humor, relatable stories, and science-backed tools, this bold, refreshing guide helps women identify what's pulling them in all directions-and let it go, guilt-free.
So, what's a Ditty? It's anything you agree to out of politeness, obligation, or fear of letting someone down. Fueled by internalized norms to be agreeable, accommodating, and perfect, Ditties can be tasks, commitments, or even mindsets. They're the "yeses" that don't feel like a choice-until you look back and realize they were. While Ditties can weigh on anyone, this book is especially for women-those of us who've been shaped to prioritize others' needs over our own and often praised for doing so.
In this book, you'll learn how to:
- Spot the Ditties in your life-especially the ones in clever disguises
- Scale your "nos" with clarity and kindness (minus the guilt spiral)
- Understand the dynamics that push women to prioritize others over themselves
- Let go of perfectionism and the pressure to "do it all"
- Replace busyness with choices that truly light you up
Whether you're a working professional, a busy mom, or simply someone ready to trade overwhelm for intention, this book will guide you back to what matters. It's time to stop living on autopilot and start building a life of clarity, purpose, and freedom-on your terms.
Ready to ditch what's holding you back? It's time to say "yes" to yourself.
A trailblazer in strength-based change for the past 20 years, Lindsey is celebrated worldwide as a dynamic speaker, consultant, facilitator, and author. Holding the Robert P. Stiller Endowed Chair of Management at Champlain College, she also spearheads the David L. Cooperrider Center for Appreciative Inquiry. Holding a master's degree in conflict resolution from George Mason University and a PhD in Organizational Behavior from Case Western Reserve University, Lindsey's impact spans far beyond academia. She has collaborated with global entities like the U.N., The Red Cross, Ben & Jerry's, Imagine Nepal, and the City of Tampa, among others. Known for her captivating talks and award-winning articles like "Earthshot OD," Lindsey's book, "How Do You Love a Question?" inspires inquiry and positive change in hearts of all ages.
With 25+ years working with organizations of all shapes and sizes, Molly is seasoned at helping steer organizations down the windy path of strategy creation, purpose clarification, and transformative change. Armed with an MBA from Case Western Reserve University, she brings a robust blend of theoretical knowledge and practical insights to her work. A leading expert in the strength-based change methodologies of Appreciative Inquiry, Molly knows how to help organizations crack the code on how to engage their most valuable resource - their people. Her ability to create practical solutions that help clients address their unique challenges with sustained results has made her a globally sought-after consultant.
With 18+ years of leadership and operational savvy under her belt, Miriam knows how to inspire transformative change in individuals and organizations alike. With deep expertise from the fields of Executive Coaching and Positive Organizational Development, she is gifted at crafting workshops and coaching spaces that inspire personal growth. Her professional background spans a variety of strategic leadership roles, managing organizational complexities, and forging key partnerships across diverse stakeholders. A proud alumna of the Weatherhead School of Management, Case Western Reserve University, she holds a Masters in Positive Organization Development and certifications in Emotional Intelligence Coaching, Immunity to Change Facilitation, and Appreciative Inquiry. With an insatiable thirst for knowledge and curious spirit, Miriam lives to inspire growth and progress with everyone she encounters.
