“Be more concerned with your character than your reputation. Your character is what you really are while your reputation is merely what others think you are." - Dale Carnegie   

“No” is just as much of an answer as saying “yes”. If this is so, then why is there still such hesitancy in delivering this one-word sentence as your unwavering first or final answer?

Denying an opportunity, social obligation, or even a person can have varying levels of difficulty – let’s face it, this is not an easy feat all the time. I wanted to share some insight that I have learned from being and having declined commitments in three areas: the workplace, relationships, and friendships.

Every “no” is going to be dependent on each individual and situation at hand - there is no true way to ever really structure it. However, my hope is that instead of “no” being tainted with guilt or fear of rebuttal, we can shift our perspectives to view it as a powerful tool to help us establish more intentionality amongst our commitment to others, current and future ambitions, and most importantly, to individual well-being.

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// POCAST NOTES 

• Workplace – framing responses so that you can provide alternatives in your declination
• Relationships – early dating stages versus established relationships: one area in each stage where "no" provides a benefit (even if it doesn't seem like it in the present)
• Friendships – set social boundaries to take care of your personal well-being as this transcends into then solidifying intentional connections amongst our circle

Disclaimer: All comments, views, and opinions expressed are my own, and do not represent any individuals that are or appear to be affiliated with this podcast. Any action that results from having listened to this episode solely relies on each individual’s own judgment and discretion.