SAYING NO

There have been so many times when I said “yes” when I wanted to say “no.”

I felt obligated to agree to avoid conflict or displeasing others.

I wanted to gain approval and be liked by others.

The problem?

Agreeing to too many requests made me feel like I was being spread too thin.

By saying “yes” to things that don’t align with my interests, I missed opportunities that were more fulfilling.

It was time to stop that.

How?

By realizing that learning to say “no” is a skill that can be developed and mastered.

You don’t have to feel guilty about saying “no.”

You don’t need to apologize.

It’s about being firm but kind.

For example, yesterday someone wanted to schedule a 30-minute pre-podcast meeting.

Here’s how I said “no”: “You’re probably going to think I’m being difficult, but I don’t do pre-podcast meetings.”

Someone else asked to pay 50% of my fee after my talk rather than up front.

Here’s how I responded:
“No, that doesn’t work for me.”

Saying “no” feels liberating.

I think people respect you more when you say “no.”