30 Ways to Say No: A post for the people pleasers

“NO!” 

So this blog post has been a long time coming. 

For so many of us out here, it can be hard to let people down. 

Not for everyone though. #SAVAGE  

Anyway, so maybe you’re a people pleaser and it brings you such joy to see others flourish (as your goals and needs fall by the wayside…), or perhaps you’re not a people pleaser but you’re an opportunist and always looking to fill your time doing something.

Whatever it is, it’s time to take control of your life-for your sake. You cannot possibly say yes to everyone, and if you do, I’d like to introduce you to my friend, Jesus. #sayYEStoJesus

But yea, thanks to some family, friends, and Dr. Google, I’ve compiled a list of ways to say no when a flat out “no” isn’t appropriate for the scenario. I’d also argue that some of these suggestions are far more harsh than simply saying no, but hey, different strokes for different folks.

Enjoy!

1.     I don’t want to.

2.     I’m not doing that.

3.     Nah.

4.     *heartily laughs then walks away*

5.     *blank stare and uncomfortable silence*

6.     I’m sorry but this is not feasible for me/my schedule.

7.     Are you sure this is the best option? (Then recommend another option that the requester can tackle without any assistance.)

8.     Maybe.

9.     Will consider.

10.  I’m not sure.

11.  I’ll get back you (instantly deletes from mind).

12.  (change the subject)

13.  I don’t have the capacity for that at this time.

14.  Write the word no down on a piece of paper, make eye contact with the requester, point to the word “no” that was written, circle the word once, then again more aggressively for dramatic effect.

15.  Say thank you once the person recognizes s/he should stop asking and smile

16.  Negative.

17.  I’m going to have to go no on that one.

18.  Mmmmm…no.

19.  Yeah no.

20.  Nehhh.

21.  Nope.

22.  No thanks!

23.  Thanks, but no thanks.

24.  I don’t have the means.

25.  I don’t have the bandwidth.

26.  I wish!

27.  If only I had a clone.

28.  Highly unlikely.

29.  That’s not really my jam, but thanks for thinking of me!

30.  no.

 Prayer: Dear Lord, please help me to live out Matthew 5:37 and set boundaries to give space to myself while making space for others.

Matthew 5:37: “but let your ‘yes’ be ‘yes’ and let your ‘no’ be ‘no’…”