How to Coach Yourself and Others Techniques For Coaching | Page 118

They will then feel more let down and maybe annoyed if it turns out to
be NO. Keep your tone neutral or even veer on the side of a refusal.
This “get back to you” time will allow you to ponder on the following
and make a wise decision:


What is the real benefit I will get personally/professionally if I agree
to do this (especially if it is a voluntary project)?



How will doing this extra task affect my focus on doing the really
important things I need to do in around Setting and Achieving Goals
for myself?



If I agree to this, will I be giving up precious time that could be spent
on my goals, with my family or on leisure activities and renewing
my energy?

This set of questions is about making it OK to make your needs and
what you want to do, at least as important as the needs and requests of
others.
Ways How to Say NO!
So you've come to the conclusion that saying YES to the request is not
the way to go. It’s time to practice how to say NO graciously and
without giving offense.
Try these generally successful strategies:


'I'd love to help you and I’m really busy": Tell me about the project
and if I think of something or someone who can help, I’ll get back
to you



'It just doesn’t work for me to do that just now, but can I suggest…’:
(and come up with someone else who may be able to help).
If asked why it doesn’t work, avoid getting drawn into a long
explanation which could lead to counter arguments and your
giving in and saying YES. Keep repeating “It really just doesn’t
work for me right now”

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