How to decline
But whether it’s “I am flattered that you thought of me but I’m afraid I don’t have the bandwidth” or “I would very much like to but I’m overcommitted,” there are a variety of ways of refusing someone clearly and politely without actually using the word no.
Greg Mckeown • Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less
I'm not available." - Helps establish off-hours and personal time boundaries.
"I need you to help me." - Encourages teamwork and shared responsibility.
"I don't agree." - Clearly states disagreement while remaining open to finding a mutual solution.
"I understand you need my help, but I cannot work on this right now." - Balances empathy with personal... See more
"I need you to help me." - Encourages teamwork and shared responsibility.
"I don't agree." - Clearly states disagreement while remaining open to finding a mutual solution.
"I understand you need my help, but I cannot work on this right now." - Balances empathy with personal... See more
I am of the belief of that a lot of the stress that exists in our life, both at home and in work, is due to arrangements we “fell into” because we didn’t know better. We said “yes” because a cheap gig is better than nothing, because we wanted to be helpful, because we had some free time, because we though I’d make us look bad otherwise, and for
... See moreTemplates to help you say no in any situation
Hi [Name],
Great to hear from you!
Because of [short and sweet reason], I can’t help you out with this at this time. But, I’m wishing you all the best with [thing you’re turning down].
Have an awesome week, [Name]!
Sincerely,
[ Your Name]
Great to hear from you!
Because of [short and sweet reason], I can’t help you out with this at this time. But, I’m wishing you all the best with [thing you’re turning down].
Have an awesome week, [Name]!
Sincerely,
[ Your Name]