Learn How to Say “No”

It is often difficult and you do not know how to express yourself if you have to refuse an invitation or participate in a new project. However, you should not let guilt and guilt dictate your life and career. Read and learn the five steps to say "no" in everyday life.

1. You have reason to say no

First of all, you need to be aware that you have a life of your own, the right to refuse someone or something, and many reasons to do so.

For example, if you have already committed, you cannot accept another invitation on the same evening.

The quality of the time spent or the work done will suffer if you are in a hurry and you will act only for the sake of answering them all positively. Whether it's work, family, or friends, too much sometimes becomes too much.

Another reason is the time you need so much just for yourself. Be aware that you don't have to keep busy and just because you've always been on the run in the past, you've always done something, doesn't mean you can't change the pace and priorities.

Remember how important it is for you to maintain a low level of stress. You will take the first step towards this by avoiding overwork and giving yourself enough time to rest. It's time to dump her and move on.

Don't forget that whenever you respond positively to the insistence and requests of those around you, you do so to your detriment. So I advise you to refuse politely, but resolutely and without giving explanations.

2. Do not overestimate the consequences of refusal

In one way or another, a refusal is a form of aggression. But do not forget that you live in a society that will constantly need you and you will not find time to rest if you do not learn to refuse.

Thus, I advise you to stop overestimating the consequences of the refusal and remember that this does not turn you into a bad person, but only into one who respects himself and knows how to impose his limits.

Keep this lesson in mind and say "no" the next time you are asked. Refusing is not as bad as you think.

3. Prepare in advance what you will say

To ease your situation, at first repeat at home or in your mind what you will say when you have to refuse. Short expressions such as "I'm sorry. I can't" or "It's impossible for me today" said in a warm tone will not hurt anyone, but will bring more comfort and relaxation in your life.

4. Realize that you need to set boundaries for yourself and others

Refusal plays an important role in setting boundaries both at work and at home. You have learned to treat those around you the way you want them to treat you, but this should not stop you from saying "no."

If you work from Monday to Friday, from 9 am to 6 pm, communicate your availability to colleagues during work hours, but do not answer calls and emails in the evening or on weekends.

It is more than normal to impose such a limit, wanting your free time to dedicate it to other activities. Then respond to all requests during work hours.

If you want to achieve your goals in life, learn to set boundaries and protect yourself. Thus, learn to reject people, situations, and commitments that prevent you from achieving your goal and distract you from it.

5. Be firm

Do not tremble or hesitate when responding to a request. If the chosen words and tone of voice are not firm, those around you may doubt your seriousness, also keep eye contact with the person asking for your favor throughout the discussion.