WHEN IT IS TIME TO SAY NO!

How and when to say no ?!

Saying no is an essential #psychological skill and one that many struggle with. On many occasions, not knowing how to say no can be one of the biggest enemies of your productivity and #growth.

I come from a place where people say "No" even before they hear the whole question (I'm exaggerating

:) ).

Because of our turbulent past, we had to stand up for ourselves, and one of the ways to do that was just that powerful word - No. I have been living in many countries and some are quite the opposite, they do not know how or when to use the word "no", therefore they are afraid or ashamed to use it as they believe it is a rude and mean word. For instance, they prefer to please people all the time.

Now tell me who's right? Those who abuse the word No or those who do not use it at all.

Let's leave aside generalization, I use this example only to paint the extremes that exist. Since I managed to get two sides of "no" in my life experience, I understand how important it is to say no and on what occasions.

Say goodbye to being a people pleaser and learn how to #confidently say no to someone without feeling bad about it.

Make yourself a priority

You should be the most important person in your life, after all, you deserve to put your feelings and needs at the centar of your life. Value yourself so that others can value you as well.

You can’t take care of others if you’re not taking care of yourself

This quote is gold. The best example is the one on a plane " you must put on your oxygen mask before assisting your parent, sibling, partner or child. " In order to help someone, first we need to take care of ourselves.

Saying no is a sign of respect and self-love

If you say yes to someone when you don’t want to, that could lead to resentment, which could negatively impact the relationship and you personally. Be honest to yourself first and then to others, make a good example, and show the importance of setting these boundaries.

Saying "no" to one thing means saying "yes" to another

Every time you say no to something, you are simultaneously saying yes to something else! This could mean more sleep, walking in the park, reading a book, or evening with loved ones.

You are the owner of your time

It is your right to do whatever you want with your time. If you feel like resting, reading or being by yourself "IT IS OK". Don’t make up excuses because you don’t have to explain yourself to anyone.

Learning how to say no is a great favor you can do to yourself. So as not seem rude, you should be kind while saying "no". There is no need to be aggressive or confrontational. Start with what you CAN do versus what you can't do. Be compassionate while remaining firm. Be clear and honest.

When you accomplish that you will do a great deal not only for yourself but for everyone around you.

What are some strategies you use to respectfully say no? Leave your answer in the comments below.