Learn it from the girls. They master the art of saying NO from a very early age which stands them in good stead all their life to face all kinds of challenges. Those who cannot say NO when required, face a life where they will be trampled upon by others and forced into situations not of their own making.
If you are amongst those millions of people who find it super difficult to say “NO” to, then this article is what the doctor ordered for you.
1. Appreciation Before Rejection
It shouldn’t matter to you whether the proposal was as big as a getaway to Switzerland or as small as a lunch with your colleague. You must appreciate the other person before rejecting the offer. This will prevent any ill feelings from birthing in the person’s mind against you.
For example, your neighbor has proposed your name in the annual society meetup but you are not willing to perform. Just say “I am grateful to you for proposing my name. However, I will not be able to perform due to some health issues. I would love to perform next time.”
The tip will give a direction to your decision-making power as you can decide how you wish to spend your time and with whom.
2. Be Reasonable
Make sure you are not dumbfounded when the other person seeks clarity on your “no”. Be clear, concise, and honest when providing them with the reason.
Let’s imagine your boss has asked you to send an email but you are on a vacation. You can say “Sorry for the inconvenience but I am on a family vacation. I will send you the mail as soon as I access my laptop.”
The easiest way to say no is to say no, but providing clarification will let people know that you have your own reasons and they can better utilize their time. Ultimately, the truth will be accepted.
3. Be Polite
There is no better virtue in the world than politeness. Turning down an offer politely will make the other person a bit at ease. In another scenario, your rude response will make them uncomfortable and also make way for negative feelings to develop in their minds.
For instance, the person has asked you out for a coffee. You can politely turn down the offer saying “That’s really nice of you but I have some plans with my family.”
Exercise complete control over your response and add a touch of politeness to it.
4. Provide Them With Alternative Options
Saying “no” does not give you the liberty to leave the person stranded in the middle. Instead, you can come up with alternative options.
If the person has asked you to lend your car for a day but you already have a vacation planned, then you can politely say no but could say ”I have a driver’s contact number. If you wish, I can share it with you.”
This will not hamper your relationship with the person and also give him or her an alternative to it.
5. Response Time Matters
Delaying your response will hamper your mental health besides leaving the other person clueless. Learn to say “no” in time rather than postponing it.
If you cannot meet a deadline, say it then and there instead of procrastinating.
The Takeaway
Saying no to someone isn’t a cakewalk and may make you feel guilty. Nevertheless, it does not mean that you should stop doing what is best for you. Admit it or not, you ought to be selfish at times for your own good.
Did this article resonate with your feelings? If yes, then you are on the way to leading a less complicated life. Simplify your life. Learn to say NO.