Great Time Management - Saying No

How to Feel Good About "Saying No"

Do you find it difficult to Say No? Many people feel awkward, guilty, embarrassed or rude when Saying No to an associate or friend and then feel awkward, guilty, embarrassed or stressed when they say yes instead. What a conundrum for those who struggle using this powerful, short two letter word.

For those of you who usually say yes when you would rather Say No and want to break that model, Great Time Management wants to help you change your default answer. Let’s start by answering a few questions about the circumstances surrounding missed opportunities to Say No.

1. What prevents you from saying no?
2. Who are you more likely to say yes to instead of saying no?
3. What are the circumstances or conditions that elicit a yes rather than a no?
4. What would it take for you to begin practicing saying no?

Often saying yes instead of Saying No complicates our life and creates unnecessary stress or anxiety. By knowing the answer to these questions we are armed to begin a life changing quest to learn when and how to Say No in a way that builds self esteem, enhance credibility and let you feel good about it.

Some of the benefits gained by Saying No in a carefully crafted manner are:

1. The quality and accuracy of your work will be significantly better.
2. You will feel energized when the right new projects come your way.
3. Your income potential will take a substantial boost.
4. You will feel more in control of your life and become more self confident.
5. Others will respect your time and opinions more.
6. You will have time for your children and other family members.
7. Your quality of life will improve exponentially.

The following tips will help you feel good about Saying No and inspire the requester to feel good about your answer. 

Seven (7) tips to help develop Win/Win scenarios for you.

1. Create blocks of time on your calendar for your critical to success activities and give them the highest priority.


2. Think of potential challenges to these activities and role-play possible responses to them. Craft your response in a non-threatening tone and deliver it as lightly but firmly as possible.


3. Consider alternatives that you may suggest to the requester.


4. Practice body language that delivers a firm but non-threatening “No”. Use a mirror if needed.


5. With your boss, you may ask for help in deciding which projects you should place on the back burner in order to complete the current request.


6. Be willing to ask if you can have time to think about the request before answering.


7. Saying No is an honorable response that communicates truthfulness.

Using these tips you can take back your life and feel good about “Saying No”.

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Article by John Golden