There is this good friend of mine that constantly sends me adverts of some good products she’s selling. I feel so much pressured to buy the products at least to encourage her, but I don’t want to be guilted into spending money on stuff I have zero need for.
How do I say no?
How do I stand on my ground without feeling guilty?
These are practical scenarios that challenge ‘no’ responses.
But, how do you say ‘no’ even when the situation is as difficult as the scenarios sighted above?
Learning to say ‘no’ is one of the most difficult tasks ever, especially when you feel your ‘no’ response will come as a disappointment to the other party or ostracize you from your peers.
Even so, saying ‘no’ is an essential part of life because a ‘yes’ response to unimportant things might cost you quality time you should have spent on important things hence, the importance of knowing the right way to reject an unpleasant offer and avoid unpleasant situations.
Here are important tips on how to say ‘no’ in difficult situations.
1. Be Bold About Saying ‘No’:
The first step to saying ‘no’ is the determination to give a ‘no’ response. Make up your mind to say ‘no’, own up to it and say it. Don’t beat about the bush. Be direct and explain if there is a need for explanation but don’t be compelled to explain. Say it boldly; it makes the decision affirmative and easier.
2. Be Courteous and Empathetic:
People love to.be understood and respected. This is why the manner of approach when saying ‘no’ is important. The approach must be in a polite manner; more importantly, let the person making the request know you would have loved to help but it is not within your power to help at that particular moment, but in a different situation and time you might actually be of help.
3. Set Boundaries:
Setting boundaries makes it easier to say ‘no’ and it also makes it harder for people to approach you with less vital tasks and favors. When boundaries are set, it allows people evaluate your relationship with them and know what you can do and not do.
4. Be Firm in Saying ‘No’:
People try to sway you after you give them a ‘no’ as a response. They try to sway you to reconsider your decision to saying ‘yes’. Some people can be manipulative in their act to convince you to say yes. In this regard, there is a need to be firm and likewise maintain your decision always.
5. Offer Alternatives:
Saying ‘no’ is never easy, but it must be learnt as not everyone can be pleased and people also tend to take advantage of you when they realize you are generous.
I believe these few listed tips will get you through many of the situations in which you and your family, coworkers and/or friends hold differing opinions.
