Saying No

If your day is full of other people’s tasks—

Learn to say this one word:

Saying “yes” to everything
is the fastest path to burnout.

But saying “no” doesn’t mean
you’re difficult.

It means you’re clear.

Here are some ways to set boundaries—
without burning bridges:

🟨 Overloaded already?
• Acknowledge the request.
• Clarify your limits.
• Propose a trade-off.

💬 “I want to help, but I’m at capacity.
Let’s see what can shift so I can do this well.”

🟦 Manager asks during family time?
• Be upfront.
• Offer a plan B.
• Show you’ll still follow through.

💬 “I have a commitment but I can
jump in first thing tomorrow.”

🟨 Teammate dumps their work on you?
• Define roles.
• Support—without rescuing.

💬 “This is yours to own,
but I can help you get started.”

🟦 Dragged into meetings you don’t need to be in?
• Step back.
• Offer async support.

💬 “To stay focused, I’ll sit this one out.
But happy to review notes after.”

You don’t owe everyone a yes.

You owe them your best work.

Overwork is not a badge of honor.

Your boundaries teach people how to treat you.

And they start with one clear no.