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"The difference between successful people and really successful people is that really successful people say no to almost everything."
WARREN BUFFETT
1.57K
6.61K reads
MORE IDEAS ON THIS
The Awkward Pause
Use awkward pauses as a tool to say no. When a request comes to you (this works only in person), just pause for a moment. Count to three before delivering your verdict.
1.38K
7.24K reads
Using E-mail Bouncebacks
Using email bouncebacks is the most socially acceptable “no” there is. It doesn't mean you're telling them that you don't want to respond to them. It only states that you can't reply for a certain period of time.
1.02K
5.02K reads
“Half of the troubles of this life can be traced to saying yes too quickly and not saying no soon enough.”
JOSH BILLINGS
1.66K
12.8K reads
Saying "No" With Humor
Saying "no" with humor will lessen the awkwardness and will lighten up the atmosphere.
1.09K
5.58K reads
“Let me check my calendar and get back to you”
It gives you the time to pause and reflect and ultimately reply that if you are or are not available. It enables you to take back control of your own decisions rather than be rushed into a “yes” when you are asked.
1.23K
4.91K reads
“Yes. What should I deprioritize?”
Saying no to a senior leader at work is almost unthinkable, even laughable, for many people. However, when saying yes is going to compromise your ability to make the highest level of contribution to your work, it is also your obligation. In this case it is not only reasonable to say no, it...
1.28K
4.69K reads
The Soft "No" ("No, But")
E-mail is also a good way to start practicing saying "no but" because it gives you the chance to draft and redraft your "no" to make it as graceful as possible. Plus, many people find that the distance of e-mail reduces the fear of awkwardness.
1.12K
5.96K reads
“You are welcome to X. I am willing to Y”
This is a particularly good way to navigate a request you would like to support somewhat but cannot throw your full weight behind. I particularly like this construct because it also expresses a respect for the other person's ability to choose, as well as your own. It reminds both parties o...
1.12K
4.01K reads
“I can’t do it, but X might be interested”
It is tempting to think that our help is uniquely invaluable, but often people requesting something don't really care if we're the ones who help them- as long as they get the help.
1.11K
4.17K reads
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WARREN BUFFETT
It is what separates winners from losers
People assume that great entrepreneurs (or great employees) are “naturals” who somehow possess some magical ability to make money. That’s simply not the case.
The difference between people who are successful and people who are not is almost entirely due to mindset.
The pursuit of less
Most things should swiftly be said no to. The most successful people say no to almost everything.
Most people say yes to minor things. Hence, most people live minor, not major lives.
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