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Welcome to today’s episode, where we’ll be delving into a topic that often makes people uncomfortable: learning how to say no in business. Whether you’re a recovering people-pleaser or just find saying no challenging, especially when you’re the boss, this episode is for you.
It’s tempting to want to say yes to every inquiry, email, and opportunity that comes your way. However, being the perpetual “yes woman” can have detrimental effects on your business. Saying yes all the time can lead to resentment towards your clients, feeling overextended, and ultimately burnout. So, let’s explore how to determine what warrants a yes and what warrants a no, how to set boundaries both personally and professionally, and most importantly, how to confidently say no and stand by it.
The Importance of Saying No
When starting and scaling a business, learning to say no is paramount. Whether it’s declining client inquiries that aren’t the right fit or passing on opportunities that don’t align with your goals, saying no is essential. You’re going to encounter numerous distractions in business, and it’s up to you to prioritize your time and energy effectively.
Determining a Yes from a No
Here are a few strategies to help you discern between a yes and a no:
- Assess Your Buckets: Consider whether a decision will fill your emotional, financial, physical, or spiritual buckets. If a potential client opportunity looks promising financially but feels emotionally draining, it may not be worth pursuing.
- Guilt vs. Genuine Desire: Ask yourself whether you’re saying yes out of guilt or a genuine desire to commit. Don’t let fear of displeasing others dictate your decisions.
- Alignment with Core Values: Determine whether the opportunity aligns with your core values, beliefs, and business vision. If it doesn’t resonate with you now, it likely won’t in the future.
How to Say No Gracefully
Contrary to popular belief, saying no isn’t negative; it’s empowering. Politely declining opportunities that aren’t the right fit allows you to pursue better-suited ventures. Here’s how to say no using a compliment sandwich:
- Express Gratitude: Start by thanking the individual for their inquiry or opportunity.
- Decline with Politeness: Politely decline the offer, citing that it’s not the best fit at this time.
- Offer Assistance (Optional): If possible, provide alternative recommendations or wish them well on their endeavors.
Remember, saying no is about respecting your time, energy, and boundaries, while also guiding others towards more suitable options.
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