Ways to Say “No” to Things.
Without saying “I’m sorry.” 1. “I wish I could help but my plate is pretty full right now.” 2. “I have said yes to too many things lately and I’m honestly overwhelmed at the moment.” 3. “I am not accepting any new tasks right now.” (I use this a lot and even though it is firm, I get positive responses because it’s relatable). 4. “I am over-committed right now, but I hope you find the help you need.” 5. “That’s my night to spend time with my family but thank you for asking me.” 6. “I’d love to but my schedule is packed right now.” 7. “That’s not a good day/time for me.” 8. “That’s not really my area, but thank you for thinking of me.” 9. “I’m honored but I can’t this time.” 10. “Thank you but this isn’t something I’m able to take on right now.” 11. “I am needed somewhere else that day, but thank you.” 12. “I am limiting my commitments right now.” 13. “I am honestly not able to dedicate the time right now.” 14. If you are disabled: “Spoons are low, so today is not a good day for this.” (try using “bandwidth” instead of “spoons” if you are not disabled so we can preserve the meaning of “spoons.”) 15. “That’s not a good fit for me, but (offer a genuine alternative).”
