The word ‘Yes’ brings positivity, abundance, and opportunity. In the day-to-day life, we have the majority of the situation when we say yes. Whether we are dealing with the boss or team members or kids; saying yes in inevitable sometimes.
It is difficult to gather the courage of uttering the unpleasant word, ‘No’. Nobody likes to hear that. However, there are situations when you have to learn the art of saying ‘No’ gracefully. When you grow a pit in the stomach by saying ‘Yes’, it is always better saying ‘No’ upfront.
When should you say No?
It is quite difficult to determine it exactly. Here are a few guidelines that can help:
- When you find that the ‘opportunity cost’ of doing something is more than the benefit, then it is better denying the work gracefully. What do we mean by it? For example, by denying an unproductive work if you can write your thesis synopsis or learn something new in the computer lab, then you must do it. Every time we say ‘Yes’ to something that has a negative opportunity cost, we end up in eating our productive time and energy.
- Is it your responsibility? If yes, then do it. If no, then better you should give a thought. Are you a political leader who wants to gain popularity by pleasing others? No, you have your personal agenda and responsibilities. Helping someone in need is a good deed, but don’t let it become your weakness. Others take benefit of it and push their responsibilities on your shoulders. Say the magical word ‘No’ gracefully, and the burden is gone!
- Someone comes to you with a request that puts you in a dilemma. Whether to say ‘Yes’ to it or deny it simply, becomes a difficult decision. The way out is simple. Is saying ‘No’ is the best answer? Please do it if it is the best answer.
- There is no need to give excuses or cook up stories when you do not want to do something genuinely. Simply deny it straight away. Yes, it is easier said than done, but you can do it. You need to state the reason for denying it in the best possible manner.
Finding the courage to say ‘No’ is difficult to learn but not impossible. You set your limits by doing it, and that sets you free. When you deny something, it is sure that you will be able to give your 100% to something else.
