For some, a simple two-letter word such as ‘no’ can be seen as quite a difficult task. Fortunately, for those who struggle to say no to others while having the feeling of guilt attached to it, there are polite alternatives to consider.
Firstly, when should you say no?
According to the information hub BetterUp, there are at least five signs to indicate when you should say no for your own good:
- When you feel uncomfortable.
- When you are overloaded.
- When you feel guilty or obligated.
- When you are only saying yes to please another person.
- When the person’s request crosses personal boundaries.
Licensed psychologist Jeff Temple, PhD tells general-interest family publication Reader’s Digest, “Technically, ‘no’ is a whole sentence, and you don’t necessarily owe anyone an explanation. But that can come across as abrupt, aggressive or cold. If you want to preserve the relationship or simply convey kindness, find a softer way to say it.”
Below are a few polite alternatives when saying no from BetterUp:
- I don’t have the bandwidth for that right now.
- I wish I were able to.
- I have another commitment.
- I’m sorry, I’m not able to fit this in.
- I’m honoured you asked me, but I simply can’t.
Reader’s Digest also lists a few helpful alternatives:
- I’m grateful for the opportunity, but I have to pass.
- I’m sorry, but I have to respectfully decline.
- I’m afraid I can’t make it work, but I appreciate the thought.
- Thanks for reaching out, that means a lot to me. Unfortunately, I won’t be able to this time, but let’s stay in touch.
- It’s not you, it’s me – it’s been an exhausting week, and I need some quiet time.
Also see: 5 Tips on how to master public speaking
