“No” is a complete sentence.  It is one of the first words issued by many babies and toddlers know its power. “No” is almost universally understood regardless of other language barriers.✨

Both “yes” and “no” are words that make us responsible for our thoughts and actions. If we say “yes,” we’re responsible for fulfilling whatever we agreed to. If we say “no,” we must accept that another may be upset. ✨

It is OK to say “no” to conserve our energy and define our priorities. ✨

Learning to determine when we need to say “no” is very important. For a variety of reasons, we really can’t do all that we’re asked anyway, without potentially increasing our likelihood of illness from physical and/or emotional stress. ✨

When we need to say “no,” there is no need to over-explain or justify our position. “No” is “no.” But if, like many of us, we’ve said “yes” throughout life when we really wanted or needed to say “no,” here are four strategies for getting comfortable with using the word when we need to conserve our energy:

1) Just practice saying “no.” Get used to the sound of it coming out of your adult mouth.

2) If “no” still feels too hard, practice saying this with a smile: “Thank you, but no. I appreciate your understanding.” 

3) When possible, offer a suggestion. Maybe there is someone else or some other way you can envision the request being fulfilled: “I’d love to accommodate you, but I can’t. Perhaps you can…”  Then, 4) Remove yourself or change the subject.  

It is OK to say “no.” We have every right to think about our response and respond within our own timeframe if we need to think about our answer as well. Before jumping to say “OK” (another short word), stop and choose. It is OK to say “no” and move on guilt-free. Try it.

I’m @DianGriesel aka a perception analyst & strategist; creative attitude disrupter & adjuster; author of The Silver Disobedience Playbook & TurboCharged: The Silver Disobedience Edition; and the blogger & model known as @SilverDisobedience  More info on my websites (search my name) and at Wilhelmina Models. Silver Disobedience® is a Registered Trademark.