Defy: The Power of No in a World That Demands Yes

Defy offers practical steps for stopping people-pleasing behaviors and living according to your own values. Dr. Sunita Sah, an award-winning researcher, presents data-driven strategies for situations where you want to object, disagree, or opt out but feel pressured to comply. The book combines research, stories, and everyday strategies to help you stand up for yourself and others in personal, professional, and broader contexts. It covers how to practice defying in low-stakes situations, recognize your body's signals that it's time to object, take responsibility for yourself and others, prepare for difficult moments, and teach children the difference between obedience and doing what is right even when unpopular. Sah argues that while compliance is widespread in society, it can be prevented. The book explores how defiance can spread from one person to others.