5 ways to say no without offending someone

When was the last time you said yes to something but you really meant no?  When was the last time you said no to something but you really meant yes?  

There are so many demands on us from our colleagues, bosses, family, friends, kids...and so many more others but if we can't say no to things that don't make us happy, what does our life look like 6 months, 12 months, 5 years from now?

We get scared to say no incase we offend.  Or maybe we're so used to saying yes that no isn't even in our vocabulary? So, saying NO trips off your tongue on autopilot.  Then you're left in the aftermath of your choices and feeling less than joyful.  

Remember this:  When you say yes to someone, what are you saying no to for yourself

Hi, I'm Deborah Craig, Intuitive Life Mentor and Hypnotherapist and I'm here to lift others up mentally, spiritually and emotionally.  I help ambitious women to free themselves of overwhelm, self doubt, fear and confusion and start living a life they love - whether that's business, careers, relationships or simply to get that zest for life back again!

I empower them to take back control of their life and become their best self by following my 7 step journey of personal transformation and growth resulting in more balance and confidence to reach their full potential.

5 effective ways to say NO without offending someone

1. A work colleague asks you to help them by taking on an extra task

I would love to be able to help you with this and I can do if you are able to wait until (1 hour, 1 day, whatever timescale) as I am in the middle of a project myself that I must get complete.

2. A manger asks you to take on extra duties that aren't really in your remit

I am always keen to take on new tasks and learn more about the business and I would love to find a way to carve out the time I need in my day for this.  Can you help me find a solution by taking a look at my commitments with me because at this stage my days are full to capacity and I can't see a way to make it happen  

3. A family member assumes you will take of a situation 

Hi X, I know in the past I would usually deal with this but I have felt it has become quite overwhelming for me and whilst I have not shared this before, I would appreciate your support on this particular situation now. 

4. Your partner ask your to take on more responsibility 

If there is a way for us to manage the responsibilities in a way that creates more time then yes I can but as things stand for now it's not possible for me to continue with what I am doing and include more on top.  There are already many demands on me that I don't always share the burden with you about.  I should probably tell you more often when I am feeling overwhelmed.

5. Your friend wants to talk to you about a problem they are having

I am so happy you have come to me to share your worries, I am always here to support you.  If you can wait for (x amount of time) for me to (complete xyz) then I will call you back.  This gives me a chance to be fully present with and listen to what's on your mind.

Want to hear more on this topic?  Listen to my conversation with Justine Antoska, Communication Expert

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I've devoted my life's purpose to helping women who have lost their way, feel stressed and anxious about life and their next steps but know that they want to become the best version of themselves to be, do and have everything they desire in life.  

I am a compassionate guide

• Helping you move forward with ease
• Helping you bring in more balance to your life
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