One of the easiest ways to take care of yourself is learning to say no. The unnecessary stress you experience is often directly associated to the obligations you make to people.
Don’t you just hate when you are having a conversation with someone and you begin to feel uncomfortable because you really don’t want to talk about what they are talking about? That uncomfortable feeling is a distinct indicator that you should probably say no to that interaction.
Whether it be a nosey person getting in your business, gossip that you want no part of, or your mother overstepping her boundaries (because let’s be honest…).
Those are perfect moments when saying no is required. And doing so can save you lots of anxiety.
Don’t lie. Don’t make excuses. Don’t explain yourself. Just simply decline.
99% of the time you can prevent the unnecessary stress in your life by simply saying no. I’m often asked by moms, “How is it that you stay so balanced, energetic and happy” well, one of my secrets is that I learned long ago how to effectively say no.
People will attempt to transfer their burdens onto you if you are not careful. Knowing how to say no is essential in lowering stress and keeping yourself “weightless” for your children.
You are not always obligated to do what others want you to do. If their request does not fit into your priorities you have the right and the duty to decline.
Saying no is simply about knowing your limits and putting some boundaries in place to protect yourself.
Yes, “No” is a complete sentence but you can be a little nicer about it.
So, here are 10 Nice Ways to Say No.
Don’t feel obligated to respond right away:
I will get back to you on that.
Let me think about it.
Saying no to taking on more than you can handle:
Thank you so much for thinking of me but I am going to have to pass.
I think this is a wonderful idea, but I can’t help with it right now, but definitely keep in mind for next time.
I would love to help you and hope everything works out but I just can’t.
I’m going to say no for now, but I will let you know if anything changes.
Sometimes you have to say no to the kids:
Give me an hour to finish this then I will play with you
I can’t do that but what I can do is…
Say no to gossip:
Girl, we all are going through something, I wish her the best.
Say no to relationships that are over:
I really enjoyed the times we shared and will always remember what we had but I’m moving in a different direction in life.
Say no to nosey people.
I am glad your willing to help and I respect your opinion but I really don’t wanna talk about it any further.
Say no to your mother’s unsolicited advice:
Thank you mom, I’m gonna pray on it. (Change the subject)
When all else fails, keep it simple.
No thank you.
Thank you for the advice!