Do you seem to have terrible trouble saying, "no?" If so, you are probably overworked, underappreciated and stressed out to the max.
It's time to stand up for yourself and learn how to say, "No!" and mean it.
I know this isn't as easy to do as it sounds.
It has taken me years of practice, yet I still have days when "no" won't roll off my tongue.
The truth is, it's hard for women to say that little two-letter word.
But there comes a point when you have to learn how.
The most important thing to remember is that you do not owe anyone an apology for saying, "no.
" Never begin your sentence with, "I'm sorry, but...
" Keeping that in mind, here are six simple ways to say, "no" without saying the word or apologizing.
1) "I'm busy today.
" Short and sweet.
Don't give a list of excuses why you're busy.
That's your business, not hers.
2) "I'll check my schedule and get back with you.
" This line will allow you time to think about whether or not you want to do whatever is requested of you, as well as consult your calendar for conflicting events.
3) "I can't do that today, but I'm free on Tuesday.
" If you tend to compromise your schedule to comply with someone's request, there's no need to keep spinning your wheels.
Instead, make it clear that you'd like to help that person out, but only on your terms.
4) "I'm previously committed.
" Again, if you already have something planned, don't cancel your plans just to please someone else.
If they care about you, they will understand that you cannot cancel your plans on a moment's notice.
5) "I'm knee-deep in work.
" If you work from home, family and friends can cause much pressure.
They don't always understand that you can't stop in the middle of the day for coffee just because they're bored and want to chat.
Be firm and schedule another time to meet for a gab session.