Sometimes it’s because you don’t want to disappoint someone, or you’re seeking approval.
If you struggle with this, then youre not alone.
There’s absolutely nothing wrong with saying no when necessary.
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Past experiences and fears for the future can both play a role.
When to Say No
Knowing when to say no to other people can also be helpful.
Turning down projects might lead to fears that you will be passed over for promotions or raises.
And you might worry that saying no to co-workers will negatively affect your relationship with them.
When you’re overworked, it means you’re not able to do your best.
This can hurt your productivity and the quality of your work.
In a Relationship
Saying no to your partner can be particularly challenging.
Sometimes, that means setting boundaries and saying no.
When you create boundaries, you help your partner get a better understanding of what is important to you.
This can help them know you better, which will ultimately strengthen your relationship.
Because relationships are about give-and-take, saying no to your partner might mean making compromises.
Being flexible and willing to compromise allows you to support your partner while still making time for yourself.
With Friends and Family
Saying no to friends and family can be difficult for many people.
Sometimes this is because you don’t want to disappoint those closest to you.
In such cases, simply saying no and firmly standing your ground is often the best strategy.
Saying no at work, in relationships, and with friends and family can create conflicting emotions.
Finding ways to set boundaries and stick to your resolve can help.
They might help you make a decision.
These strategies can help you learn to say no more effectively and with less emotional distress.
Use a sympathetic, but firm tone.
If pressured as to why, reply that it doesnt fit into your schedule, and change the subject.
This gives you a chance to review your schedule and consider your options.
This strategy also allows you to think about whether you want to say “yes” to another commitment.
This way youll still be partially involved, but it will be on your own terms.
This means that whatever you choose to take on limits your ability to do other things.
It’s also important tolearn to set boundariesin general.
2020;15(7):e0236145.
Kaufman SB, Jauk E.Healthy selfishness and pathological altruism: Measuring two paradoxical forms of selfishness.Front Psychol.
