Can You Give the “Tough No” Even if it Costs You?

It’s hard for most of us to say no.

It’s even harder when we really want to say yes! It can be excruciating when it costs us financially or emotionally to say no. But…there’s always a “but” isn’t there?

I submit that the toughest no is often the most necessary and the most valuable both at work and at home.

What do I mean by a “tough no?” How about when you are offered an exciting project at work, but just can’t fit it in and juggle your other work? Maybe you are asked to volunteer for that cause that is near and dear to your heart, but your plate is already full? You are offered your “dream job,” but there’s a catch, you have to travel all the time and you have small children? Or maybe it’s a career move that sounds wonderful, but isn’t the direction you want to go in? How about the possibly lucrative client that just sucks your energy?

You know what I mean. Your arm is being twisted either by money, pride or guilt, but in the pit of your stomach you just know it’s the wrong choice…or maybe a right choice, but the wrong time.

Can you say no? Should you?

Yes, you can! Yes, you should!

I have struggled with this from time to time and have always been glad when I managed to choke out the “NO” even if it half killed me to do it. I just recently wrestled hard with a “tough no” that might have cost me financially in the short run, but would have taken me down the wrong path and stood in the way of long-term goals. It was the right choice for me…at least I hope it was.

If something is not a good fit for you…the best answer is no.

Stay on course.

Know where you’re going.

Have your priorities straight.

Listen to your gut.

And most importantly…when the decision is made and the NO is given, move on and don’t look back!