How to Say "No" Politely
Do you sometimes have trouble saying “NO”?
“No” might be a short and simple word, but lots of us have trouble declining requests. We often worry about hurting someone else’s feelings, even if we really don’t want to do as they ask.
However, saying “NO” can be crucial to your mental health. It’s okay to put yourself first. That doesn’t make you selfish.
The only way you can truly help someone is by taking care of yourself first.
Check out these ways of saying NO without hurting someone’s feelings.
“I can’t give you an answer right now. Will you check back in with me?”
“Thank you so much for thinking of me, but I can’t.”
“No, I can’t do that. But here’s what I can do…”
“I don’t think I’m the right person to help with that.”
“I have too many other commitments, so I can’t help with that, but thank you for asking.”
“I need to focus on myself for now, but thank you for asking.”