Saying No
The Right Way
Often what stands between us and awesome is “No”.
“What you don’t do determines what you can do.”
Tim Ferriss
“Half of the troubles of this life can be traced to saying yes too quickly
and not saying no soon enough.”
Josh Billings
“The difference between successful people and really
successful people is that really successful people say no to almost
everything.”
Warren Buffett
“Focusing is about saying no.”
Steve Jobs
2 Problems When Saying “No”
You THINK They HEARExasperation
Saying “No”, the right way
remember your ABCDs
The ABCDs
● Alternatives● Brevity● Compassion● Directness
Alternatives
When possible, offer alternatives. Even if you personally can’t solve the problem, you’re still invested in helping.
Brevity
When saying no, keep is short and simple. If you extend the conversation beyond what is necessary you risk confusing your message.
Compassion
Show that you understand the problem and the consequences of your saying no. Be sincere.
Directness
Above all, be direct.
Don’t be wishy-washy when you say no. This leads to confusion.
Value Curve
Optimize for Clarity first