Other Ways to Say No

It can be hard to say no, especially if you are trying to avoid letting people down, hurting someone’s feelings or coming off as rude.

Maybe you’re worried that…

• if you say no to a work project, your boss will think less of you

• if you say no to girls’ night out, they will stop inviting you

• if you say no to hosting Thanksgiving, your mother-in-law will think you are rude

So, you say yes.

Even though your plate is full, your battery is drained, your nerves are shot, you are not interested and you would rather be at home binge watching The Pitt.

It could be as simple as not wanting to disappoint others or it could be that it feels selfish to honor your own needs.

I say this with love:

You are not responsible for the emotional experience of other people.

Saying no does NOT mean you don’t care. It just means that sometimes you have to put on your own oxygen mask first.

People might be disappointed, hurt, angry, confused, uncertain, or unhappy about your decisions and boundaries and that’s okay.

Here are other ways to say no while still being your kind, polite, caring and thoughtful self:

No, thanks

Maybe next time

I wish I could help

I can’t make it

I won’t be there, but have a great time

I’ll have to pass

It’s not for me

My plate is full at the moment

I’m not available

I’m going to decline but thanks for thinking of me

If you are struggling to say no, set boundaries or prioritize your own needs, let’s chat. I offer free consultations to learn more about working together.