Chapter 27. Knowing How to Say No Is a Key Time-Management Tool

No. It’s just one little word. So why do we find it so hard to say, particularly when we’re at work?

Note

Why do we find it so hard to say no, particularly when we’re at work?

Well, to start, it’s tough to be the bearer of bad news. Negative words are more powerful than positive ones. Their impact is like a cold shower: People may tense up, stop listening, or get defensive. You don’t want to be the bad guy of the office by dismissing your colleagues’ proposals. Nor do you want to upset senior executives who might influence your career progress.

However, not knowing how to say no can be a recipe for workplace stress and career chaos. If you say yes to everything, you may never have time ...

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