The Art of Saying No
Feeling burned out, over-committed and struggling to prioritize? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then like me, you probably have trouble saying “no.”
I am a pleaser. Saying “no” doesn’t come easy to me. After years of overcommitting, I’m working on it. I’ve been practicing the art of simply saying “no” without a detailed excuse. It’s a freeing experience that helps calm the chaos and allows me to focus on what truly matters. First, I had to reconcile with my resistance to saying “no.”
What is so hard about saying “no?”
Replying with “no” presents a conflict, can be uncomfortable and perceived as rude. But it doesn’t have to be that way. You have the power and the right to say “no” without any guilt. Once you realize that, you can make more time for the things you really care about. Life is too short for regrets about wasted time.
Reclaim your time and energy by saying no.
Here are some tips to guide you on mastering the art of saying “no”
Set boundaries that align with your personal goals-If you want to evolve as a person, you can’t say yes to everything. Saying “no” allows you more time to learn and grow.
Consider and value your time-Know your schedule and commitments. Ask yourself, how is this a good use of my time? If it isn’t, then say “no.”
Sleep on it-Take a day, or a night to think over the really “BIG” asks, especially from people you know and respect. Use the time to thoughtfully consider the best way to say “no.”
Trust your intuition-If it doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t worth your time. Don’t let your fear of missing out take over. Just say “no.”
Don’t apologize-You have nothing to be sorry for. Be firm and unapologetic about guarding your time when you say “no.”
Practice a polite, “no, thank you”-A graceful reply to any invitation goes a long way. Even if your answer is “no.” Practice a few phrases that start or end with gratitude and kindness.
No, I cannot commit at this time. I appreciate you asking me.
Thank you for thinking of me. Unfortunately, I am unavailable.
No thank you, that is out of my area of expertise.
Mastering the art of saying “no” means you are saying “yes” to the things that truly matter to you.
Forget the guilt and be proud of reclaiming your time and energy by saying “no.”
Dig Deeper & Journal It
What personal goals do you want to say “yes” to?
Which boundaries can you set in order to reclaim your time and energy?
How will you hold yourself accountable to mastering the art of saying “no?”
Share your comments below or on my social media pages and make it a great day!