Monday Inspiration: How to Start Saying No

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Why is it that saying “no” is so terribly difficult? We feel an array of feelings when we say no…we feel guilt, anxiety, we feel the need to make excuses. Well today, we are going to talk about how to start saying no. When we say no, we can help free ourselves up from unnecessary life clutter, and help keep our schedules a little less full and overwhelming. With the holidays on our heels, there is no better time than to start saying NO. Here are some tips to get you started.

How to Start Saying NO

1. Practice.
This sounds silly, but take a few minutes to practice saying no. Find a mirror and try some role playing. Pretend that someone has just asked you to pick up their dry cleaning, borrow money, or watch their children. Practice saying no into the mirror. Watch your facial expressions and listen to your tone of voice. Practice, practice, practice.

2. Find a buffer.
You may feel more confident saying no if you have a buffer to go with it. A buffer can be a simple apology after the no, or a stand by reasoning that you can go to. For example, you can say something like “No I am sorry, I have a full plate right now.” This will help buffer the no and make it easier for you.

3. Feel no guilt.
When you say no, you often times fill with guilt and anxiety. It is time to start saying no and not feeling guilt over it. By saying no you are not withdrawing your friendship or love for the person, you are simply saying that you can’t give them what they are asking for at this time.

4. Reap the rewards.
When you say no and avoid taking on extra tasks and jobs, it is important to take a moment and reap the rewards. Start by recognizing the rewards, which can include more time with family, less stress, and less anxiety. Really reflect on how these moments make you feel, so you can remember that when the time to say no pops up again.

Practice, find a buffer, feel no guilt, reap the rewards! When you start saying no, you will in fact find that you can live a fuller, more satisfying life. If you are the constant “go to” person that everyone runs to, now is the time to start implementing this plan and start saying no. How will you start saying no? Tell us on the Facebook page or Community Chat page.

Happy Monday, friends.