When Is Enough - Enough?

When is enough - enough? Do you ever wonder when enough is enough? Too often, educators do not know when to say “no” when being asked to do something. Ask yourself, when is the last time that you told someone “no” when asked to do something? There is an old saying, ” If you want to get something done ask someone that is too busy.” The idea behind this saying is that busy people will have organizational skills that will allow them to complete your requested task as well as complete the other things they need to do.

Do you know how to say no?

Here are some suggestions on how and when to say no.

If this request is something you would rather not do, then say “NO”. You can practice in front of a mirror saying no. Practice with your spouse, providing it is not your spouse who you are saying “NO” to. Look to see if you appear to be poised and serious , then be determined. When others see that you are serious and poised, it will be more likely they will accept your “NO” as your final answer and not attempt to coerce you into doing this task anyway by laying a “guilt trip” on you. You can also practice recording your message of “NO” and replay them until you find that you find best suits your personality.

Is this something you would like to do but really do not have the time to do it. Then just say “NO”. Think about the quality of what you are to do if you do not have the necessary time to dedicate to doing it well. Over the long term, people will respect your “NO” answer rather than a “YES” answer if you also get a poor or inadequate performance of the task. How will others view you either way you answer? How others feel about you will most likely will be based upon the manner inwhich you decline their request.

You really have no particular reason for turning down someone’s request to complete a task, you just do not want to do it. Then be firm and respectful and say “NO”. Most educators will find a new sense of relief of not taking on more responsibility.