Nowadays, we are stretched thin by constant requests for our attention. But sometimes it's important to say no. Here's how.
In today’s society, it is almost fashionable to be busy all the time. Many cultures worldwide encourage overworking and taking on more whenever we are asked.
Unfortunately, this is not healthy for us – mentally or physically. It is crucial to know when to say no and how to do it without causing unnecessary stress.
Who is it Hard to Say No?
There are many situations when saying no is difficult and even awkward. In a work environment, it can be tough to say no out of fear of getting fired.
Especially when so many people struggle saying no and end up taking on more than they can handle. If more people said no, it would be easier for everyone to be honest if they can’t do something.
It is not just the workplace where saying no is difficult. According to Psychology Today, women especially struggle to say no in relationships.
In many situations, saying yes seems like the lesser of two evils. It can be easier to accept a drink from a man at the bar rather than ‘making a scene.’
It’s not just romantic relationships either. Saying no to friends or family members can be just as hard!
Interrupt the Yes Cycle
It can be surprisingly hard to go from saying yes to saying no. One trick to interrupting the yes cycle is using phrases such as “I’ll get back to you.”
It can be easy to cave to doing something you don’t want to or can’t when on the spot.
Giving yourself some time to say no with greater confidence can make it easier.
Plus, depending on the situation, it can make it possible to say no over the phone, email, or text rather than in person.
It also gives you the time to formulate the right way to say no without causing unnecessary drama.
Refusal is NOT Rejection
Many of us see refusing to do something as a form of rejection. This can be true for both the person asking and the person responding.
However, we, as humans, tend to overthink things in general. So it is likely that the person asking won’t take your refusal to heart.
It is essential to remind yourself that you are not rejecting the person asking; you are simply refusing.
Compromise
Learning to say isn’t just about using the word ‘no.’ If you are asked to do something, you could offer to do something else instead.
For example, if a friend asks you to drive far to meet them, you could ask if they’d meet you somewhere closer.
If you are being asked to work later on a specific day, you could ask to come in earlier another time when it’s more convenient for you instead.
Learning to say no isn’t just about refusing everyone and everything. It is about doing what is best for you.
Compromises are a great way to show that you are willing to make an effort but on your own terms. Of course, sometimes it is okay to simply say no.
Keep it Simple
When you are saying no, be firm and direct. Keep your responses short and simple, be direct. “I’m sorry, but I can’t this evening,” is enough.
You don’t have to defend your response or give details of your busy schedule. It is also okay to say no for reasons that aren’t lack of time.
It is crucial not to over-apologise and to be strong in your body language when you communicate. When you are saying no, you are not asking for permission to say it. You are simply communicating your response to a request.
Be True to Yourself
Just like the habit of always saying yes, it is also possible to get into the habit of always saying no. But life is about balance, and it is important to be true to yourself to find it.
Think a lot about what you like, don’t like, and your goals in life. Knowing exactly what you genuinely want can help you be honest with yourself.
Obviously, sometimes we all have to do things we don’t want to. It is all about knowing when you can and should say no.
Research shows that learning to say no is the key to living a happier life. There are many ways to get out of the cycle of always saying yes to everything.
Start by giving yourself more time to say no, making compromises, keeping it simple, and understanding the difference between refusal and rejection.
Photos: Shutterstock
Saying no can be one key to happiness. Here are a few more:
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