In the “always on” age, saying no just doesn’t seem to enter our vocabulary. Whether they are coming from the boss, your coworkers, a client, or your significant other, expectations are high, and it can end up being a physical, emotional, and mental drain. If you are feeling exhausted and unable to cope with the day-to-day, you should know that sometimes, it’s okay to say no.
Of course, there’s a fine line between putting your needs first and outright insubordination. There are places and times when saying no might not be an option. But, knowing what situations you can say it will put you one step closer to sanity.
Here are some situations you might find yourself in where it’s totally okay to say no:
1. You’re completely exhausted
If you take on a task when you can’t give it your full attention, you won’t be doing anyone any favors. If you’re sleep-deprived on a consistent basis, your performance will continue to suffer until you do something about it. Sleep should be non-negotiable.
2. You’ve already got too much on your plate
If you’re a high achiever, it’s tempting for management (and others) to pile more responsibilities on you. The truth is, there are only so many hours in the day, and there’s only so much you can accomplish. If you know you don’t have time, if you know that you can’t possibly deliver within a reasonable timeframe, don’t accept the challenge.
3. You don’t have the right skills for the task
Too often, we take on things that somebody else convinces us will be “easy” for us to do. But, if you don’t know how to do the job or if there is something about it that is outside of your expertise, it’s quite likely you are not the right person for the task. Don’t accept challenges like this just because your co-worker tells you how smart you are. Be realistic about what you can promise and say no judiciously.
4. The task compromises your wellbeing
It’s your life; it’s your time. Whether it’s a job, a relationship, or an activity with a friend or family, if you dread the thought of going there, chances are it will have a negative impact on your health. Don’t be afraid to say no, because life is definitely too short.
Heritage Office Suites is Georgetown and Round Rock’s flexible office solutions headquarters and we have made it our business to help our clients get more accomplished. Drop by for a tour today, we’d love to show you how we do it!
5. Nobody owns you
You may be a key player at work, but the company does not own you 24/7. Everybody is entitled to a personal life, so set some boundaries and don’t compromise your privacy and work-life balance. Of course, there will always be emergencies, but the more that people think they can hit you up at all hours of the day or night, the more it’s going to happen. Set the hours you want to be available and give yourself the gift of sticking to it.
