This month we’re focusing on why sometimes we should just say NO. 

It’s so easy to say yes and agree to do stuff for others. But it can often result in work overload where we either accomplishing everything to the point of exhaustion, or not fulfilling the tasks and inevitably disappointing those we promised to help.

So, what can we do to avoid this? Well, it’s simple – sometimes we must say no!

It may feel wrong and can even make you feel guilty or anxious but having the courage to just say no is actually an incredibly efficient skill that can benefit your work goals, productivity, finances and general well-being. 

So, with this in mind, take a look through our tips and tools and learn how to just say no.

Tools

Watch this short video and in which Derek Sivers explains his philosophy on how to decide whether to say yes or no.

Learn to say NO!

Learning to say no is about making choices about what is important to you and this course with Dr. Todd Dewett will set you on the path to classify work into categories of importance and decide how it matches your own goals and values. These guidelines will help you to decide when to say yes or no in a way that is brief, honest, positive, and respectful.

Why keep the word no it in your native tongue? Spread your wings and say no in every language from Afrikaans, Welsh, Yiddish and more. 

Tips

Start by leaving work on time!
It’s all too easy to let meetings and last-minute requests prevent us from leaving work at a reasonable hour. Instead we’ll often keep going long after the sun goes down, allowing it follow us homes. It doesn’t have to be like this!  These research-backed tips will show you how to end the workday in a timely, professional manner. 

 

Five great reasons to say no
You may hate the thought of hurting someone else’s feelings and refusing to help them out. If you struggle with this, these five reasons may help you say no for a better yes. 

The habit of people pleasing is debilitating
This article explores how to say no by clearly articulating your needs, challenges, or deadlines. 

 

And finally, why not take a peek at noted entrepreneur and presentation expert Kenny Nguyen speaking in this TED Talk about the power inherent in saying "no."  

Have you found these tips and tools useful? Do you have any you'd like to share with us? Do you know someone who might benefit from giving one of the tools or resources from our list a go?

Please share away, and why not submit your comments below?