To Be True to Yourself
If you don’t want to attend an event, spend money that you don’t have, or eat Aunt Beca’s famous triple layer torte, don’t. Learn to say no politely. Easier said than done, right? It is human nature to be agreeable and kind, but learning to say no is an important skill to hone. If you’re struggling to say no, remind yourself of the cost of saying yes. Will a yes cost you calories, dumping syndrome, time, peace of mind, needed rest, or money? Use these tips to become an expert at saying no.
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Practice makes perfect. Practice these sayings: no, no thank you, no thanks, thank you for thinking of me, but I’ve got too much going on right now, I appreciate the thought, but no thank you, not today—thanks, and not for me—thanks.
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Don’t elaborate. Just say you don’t want to.
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Don’t be afraid to say it twice. People may think you’re saying no to be polite or that you really would like a piece of that torte and will cave in if they keep asking. Just smile and say no a second time.
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If you have to add a reason, keep it simple. No, your torte looks delicious, but I’m following doctor’s orders.
