Learn How to Say No

Do you often find yourself grudgingly talking to telemarketers, taking on tasks that aren’t your responsibility or committing yourself to activities you really aren’t interested in? If so, it’s time to resolve your issues with saying no. Constantly putting yourself out to please others builds up resentment and ultimately these feelings will undermine your relationships.

If you’re so used to saying yes you cant imagine uttering any other response, start small. Visualise potential scenarios in which you’d like to be able to say it. Role-playing with a friend can help you get used to the idea so that the next time you’re asked to do something saying no will feel natural.

Let people know that you’re busy and have other responsibilities. If you let people know this they’ll be less likely to ask in the first place but if they do they’ll already understand you have other things to do. Don’t make long-winded excuses though, it’s unnecessary and will only serve to make you feel guilty.

If you feel bad about saying no when your calendar isn’t exactly packed, it’s a good idea to start treating your relaxation time just like you would an appointment. If you like you can pencil it in so that if anyone asks you can say your booked without growing a long nose!

You must accept that you are your own person and that you have a right to make decisions that are in your best interests. Not pleasing someone isn’t the end of the world, they’ll find someone else to help out. Be kind to yourself, you deserve the same respect and consideration from yourself that you normally give to others.