Saying No

The Right Way

Often what stands between us and awesome is “No”.

“What you don’t do determines what you can do.”

Tim Ferriss

“Half of the troubles of this life can be traced to saying yes too quickly

and not saying no soon enough.”

Josh Billings

“The difference between successful people and really

successful people is that really successful people say no to almost

everything.”

Warren Buffett

“Focusing is about saying no.”

Steve Jobs

2 Problems When Saying “No”

Confusion

You THINK They HEARExasperation

Saying “No”, the right way

remember your ABCDs

The ABCDs

● Alternatives● Brevity● Compassion● Directness

Alternatives

When possible, offer alternatives. Even if you personally can’t solve the problem, you’re still invested in helping.

Brevity

When saying no, keep is short and simple. If you extend the conversation beyond what is necessary you risk confusing your message.

Compassion

Show that you understand the problem and the consequences of your saying no. Be sincere.

Directness

Above all, be direct.

Don’t be wishy-washy when you say no. This leads to confusion.

Value Curve

Optimize for Clarity first