Ever say ‘yes’ when you’d rather say ‘no’?
Next time someone makes a request you can’t meet, try this:
👉 “Here’s what I can do…”
This keeps the tone collaborative. It shows you want to help. And it sets boundaries without sounding defensive.
You don’t need to give a flat ‘no’. Offer an alternative that works for you, like:
“I can’t join the meeting, but I can send input in advance”
“I won’t finish it today, but I’ll prioritise it tomorrow”
“I can’t take that on, but I can help you scope it”
Set boundaries without sounding negative.
