4 Good Reasons To Say No

Part 4 - Saying "NO" - The Series
I've mentioned in previous posts one key reason related to business, productivity, and time mangement to say no and that is it helps you focus.

Another reason is for your health! What... you're health?  Yep, in doing research for this series, I ran across information on saying no posted by the famous Mayo Clinic.  They suggest the ability to say no is a stress management strategy!

Tweet This => http://ctt.ec/6EU8a+ The ability to say no is a stress management strategy!

So, saying no is not only a time management tip, it's a stress management tip as well.

Their post suggests 4 reasons to say no.  I  like them - they are beyond business and more holistic in nature.  I particularly like the last one. Here they are:

• Saying no isn't necessarily selfish. When you say no to a new commitment, you're honoring your existing obligations and ensuring that you'll be able to devote quality time to them.
• Saying no can allow you to try new things. Just because you've always helped plan the company softball tournament doesn't mean that you have to keep doing it forever. Saying no will give you time to pursue other interests.
• Always saying yes isn't healthy. When you're overcommitted and under too much stress, you're more likely to feel run-down and possibly get sick.
• Saying yes can cut others out. On the other hand, when you say no you open the door for others to step up. They may not do things exactly the way you would, but that's OK. They'll find their own way.

An important conclusion on saying no is that the ability to do has broad reaching affects. It impacts health, happiness, giving others a chance, having a quality life, self-esteem, training people how to treat you, setting boundaries, family dynamics, having a successful business and career and I'm sure you can think of more.

Coaching point: Where should you say no?  Ask yourself, "Why am I having a hard time doing so?" Get help from others to exercise your "no" muscle. If you're not use to saying no, test the feeling of saying no in low risk situations.

Having a hard time getting things done? You'll want to get the book:  Organizational Strategies for the Overwhelmed - how to manage your time, space, & priorities, to work smart, get results & be happy - Kindle - The Book - Nook - Audio Book -  The Seminar (the book is based on a seminar that can be brought to your organization.

Need a book that directly addresses saying no?  I recommend: The Power of a Positive No - William Wry

This blog is based on this book. In it are actionable ideas on being a better manager: The 1% Edge - The Workbook - Power Strategies to Increase Your Management Effectiveness

Source Link from the Mayo Clinic information: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/stress-relief/SR00039