Building WORK/LIFE HARMONY

Can’t Say “No”? Try “I Won’t”.

Learning to say “no” is necessary but difficult.
Try saying, “I won’t”. It is less confrontational and identifies an action you won’t do rather than telling person “NO!” to their request.

Concerning saying “No”:

1. Show a generous spirit: Be helpful and say “yes” whenever it doesn’t cause you stress or inconvenience.
2. Keep it simple. You are not obliged to give an explanation or to fake an excuse.

• Buy yourself some time to consider a request and devise a diplomatic reply, instead of saying “no” immediately.
• Refer to your “personal policy” not to fulfill such requests.
• Practice prevention by keeping your schedule and your obligations to yourself, so you will not be asked for help when others think you are “available”.
• The excuse “I have other plans” can refer to down-time, your meditation or bubble bath.
• Don’t lie, but prepare face-saving excuses for use when necessary.

 

READ:

How to Say No Without Feeling Guilty By Patti Breitman and Connie Hatche Basic Books