I've written before about the joy of saying no when asked to do something that doesn't fit with your goals and priorities.
But I realize I've forgotten to quote Miss Manners, who provides such good advice on how to say no.
Her recommended phrase is, "Oh, I'm so terribly sorry, I just can't." If asked why not, her reply is, "Because I'm afraid it's just impossible."
[Quoted from the wonderful book, Miss Manners' Guide to Excruciatingly Correct Behavior, by Judith Martin]
Friday, July 13, 2007
Miss Manners: How to Say No
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5 comments:
Hi Jeri,
Excellent advise when you are not trying to hurt someone's feelings.
- John
I'm fond of another of her retorts, too: When asked a question you'd rather not answer, simply respond, "why do you ask?"
Setting boundaries is crucial, especially to being organized. My preference for saying "no" is to be kind about it, to remember our common humanity. Including "thank you" goes a long way . . .
-- Claire Josefine
www.clairejosefine.com
Claire and John: Thank you both for raising the point that you can say "no" and still be kind.
In a response to another question about being asked to do (yet another) favor for someone who doesn't reciprocate, Miss Manners offered this reply, "I'm so sorry, I can’t this time; I hope you find someone."
thank you to you all. this is very helpful!
Bethany, I'm so glad to hear that!
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