The Power of “No”

Have you ever said "yes" because you were afraid of being seen as uncooperative, of hurting people’s feelings, of getting others into trouble with their bosses, of missing opportunities?

Saying "yes" when you mean "no" robs you of an irreplaceable resource: your time. Refusing someone’s request is easier than you think. And, it gives you the space to agree when something is important to you. Writer Leslie Jamison used to be afraid to say no. Ultimately, she kept a notebook of all the things to which she automatically said “uh-uh”…and she learned 4 important lessons:

• Others have the right to ask you to do things, and you have the right to refuse. You are in charge of your own boundaries and should not expect others to draw them for you.
• You have to accept that others may be disappointed. But they will get over it. You are not in charge of other people’s feelings and perhaps they will also learn to say no.
• The fear of missing out can be unlearned. If you keep track of opportunities you turned down you will see how other possibilities -– often better —came along.
• Saying no does not mean you are ungrateful. You can sincerely express your thankfulness if someone offers you an invitation or opportunity, despite the fact that you are not accepting it.  

When was the last time you said “no”, and were you glad you did? To join the conversation, click "comments" on below.

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