Do you feel you have no time for yourself?
Stop doing this.
Saying NO isn’t socially acceptable… or is it?
We are social creatures and need others for almost everything. But the need to be accepted socially, religiously, and professionally can drive us to try to please everyone.
- Got an email from a stranger? You reply right away.
- A friend needs a babysitter? You’re there.
- Unpaid extra hours at work? Hell yeah!
The problem is that by constantly trying to please everyone else, you prioritize their needs, putting aside what truly matters to you.
And then comes stress, frustration, and the feeling you have NO time for yourself.
Sounds familiar?
How to say NO politely
Then learn to say NO.
Once, I asked a lady I admire to do something for my business.
I was sure she would say yes, as we knew each other and had some friends in common.
Her answer blew me away.
“Thanks for thinking of me, Sebastián. That’s very thoughtful. However, my mentor insists I only commit to projects aligned with my current business strategy to reach my goals. So, unfortunately, I will have to decline your invitation. Thanks again!!”
A 3-step formula for saying NO without guilt
- She acknowledged my request by thanking me.
- She gave me a reason.
- She declined, thanking me again…
Would I have preferred she said yes? Obviously.
But I took it well.
How to say NO > Acknowledgement + reason + decline.
If you use the same structure whenever you’re asked to do something you can’t or don’t want to do, you will stand your ground without hurting others.
Want to claim control of your time?
Say NO more often.
Now on to you. Tell me of a time you wish you said no, but said yes.
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