1. Firstly, listen to that nagging voice inside
your head. Your intuition often knows when something is wrong – or when
you’re saying “yes” to something that you’re going to regret - even
though we can’t articulate the reason yet.
2. Be clear about what you want out of life – otherwise you’ll spend your time being used by other people.
3. Count the cost. Be clear about the implications
of saying “yes” – on your time, energy, exam success, friendships,
reputation, and so on.
4. Understand that it’s OK to say “no”. You have a
right to take control of your own life, and to schedule your time and
priorities (and the same is true for other people, as well.)
5. Say “no” using the medium you’re most
comfortable with is. For some people, that’s face to face; for others,
it’s a text or email; and for others, a phone call.
6. Keep it simple and to the point. Often, a reason
or excuse is not necessary. You need to be respectful and polite – but
don’t over-excuse yourself. (If necessary, write down what you are going
to say in advance, and practise saying it.)
7. Sometimes being “uncontactable” is a deterrent
in itself – as people can’t reach you, to try and pin you down! That may
mean switching off your phone, and any forms of social media.
8. Delay your response as by that time the person is half expecting you to decline, anyway.
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