Just Say No.....But How?

Article: Just Say No…But How?
By Mary Kay Aide

Women are natural givers and relationship builders. It’s one of the fabulous things about us! Unfortunately it’s also a curse because we may go too far and say yes to things we know are not good for us.

Bottom line, we are willing to sacrifice ourselves for the good of a relationship, to avoid being judged or hurting another’s feelings.

So how do you say No without seeming abrupt or hurtful?

Here’s a tip: When approached by a friend, committee chair, family member, solicitor, etc., you don’t have to say “no”…and you don’t’ have to say “yes” either!

Here’s a very appropriate response:

“Thank you so much for asking. I’d love to help you out, but let me think about it and see if it works for me before I commit. I'll get back to you tomorrow (or next week) and let you know.”

Then you have time to become more conscious about what you really want to do and you can go back to that person with a clear answer.

If you decided it doesn’t work (or really just don't want to), you have been respectful of them and their request while honoring yourself as well. It’s a win-win. Here’s a possible response:

“I’ve given your request some thought and while I’d love to help you out, it’s just not going to work for me right now. I’m really sorry.”

If you decided yes, then you have consciously made the decision and you can give the request the attention it deserves.

Good luck-I'd love have you try it and report back how it goes.

This Is Your Life.....Make It What You Want!