Saying No
#97 - Feb.2024
For a long time, I’ve struggled to say ‘no’.
We all know how important is to know when to say ‘yes’ and when to say ‘no’. Yet, we continue taking on new things: a new challenge, a new feature in your roadmap, a new responsibility...
I see myself many times linking the fact of saying ‘yes’ to my reputation and influence. I don’t want to let people down.
But saying ‘no’, at the right times, is as important as saying ‘yes’. Both are part of good decision-making.
As I've learned to say ‘no’, I've realized that, when properly assessed, saying no can improve expectations, and alignment, and ultimately strengthen trust bonds.
‘No’s’ can also take multiple forms:
No, but [alternative].
No, yet.
No, but I can refer you to someone.
No, since I need more data.
Saying ‘yes’ to everything taxes you with burden and frustration. You agree even if you disagree. As a friend & coach once told me: We don’t want 2 versions of you. We want the best version.
Saying no consistently is very hard, especially if you tend to be agreeable (as I do). But remember that people expect our best version, the one that is confident enough to make the right decision.
