Are you saying "no" enough?

If you’re a highly sensitive person, a perfectionist with high-functioning anxiety, or just a person of high-integrity who knows how to get things done . . . You're so used to being the one who makes it happen, that you take on more than you need to out of habit. And people know to look to you for problem-solving, so you tend to be the go-to person when something goes wrong. Plus, you feel guilty saying "no," because you know what you are capable of, and you also want to make a difference in people's lives!

Real talk . . . you simply can't do it all. Saying "No" has to become part of your toolkit.

Here are some ideas of things to say "No" to, to help protect yourself from burnout . . .

1. Answering emails and being available after-hours.
2.Taking on clients that aren't a good fit for your business.
3.Meeting unrealistic deadlines.
4.Rescheduling your work-day to meet family obligations, when there is another family-member who could step up to the plate.
5.Lowering your prices to make it more convenient for someone.
6.Completing tasks that aren't part of your usual workload or pricing structure.

7. Extracurricular activities or volunteer opportunities that you realistically don’t have the energy for.

Action item:

Practice saying "No"to these type of requests, so you can free-up your time for more high-value aspects of your life. Start by saying "No" via email and/or text message (it's often easier), and work your way up to saying "No" face-to-face. Here are some sample scripts you can use, to help you start saying "No" more effectively.

No to after-hours availability:

Dear _______, thanks for reaching out. My scheduled work hours are ___________, and it's important to me to adhere to these, so that I can provide you and my other clients with the most high-value work possible. Therefore, I ask that you please reach out with requests during my working-hours time, or be understanding of the fact that I will follow-up on your requests when I am scheduled back in the office. Your willingness to adhere to this request ensures that you are reaching me at my most productive, most creative self, and that you receive the benefits of that. Thank you.

No to potential clients or networking requests:

Hi ________; Thank you for reaching out! I've reviewed my availability and your requests, and I want to ensure that you receive the best outcomes possible. Based on this, I think it's in your best interest to pursue other collaborative opportunities, so your needs are met most-effectively. Here are some suggestions . . .

No to unrealistic deadlines:

Thank you for reaching out, _______. You, and your success, is important to me, as is the integrity of the work I provide. Making sure I serve you in the most-effective way possible is my number one priority, which is why I am unable to meet the deadline of ________. I understand this is probably disappointing and frustrating to you, so here is what I can do ________________.

What’s something you need help saying “no” to?

Drop me an e-mail and let me know.

If you need more support, don’t hesitate to contact me to learn more about Coaching or Counseling.