Scared to say NO?

One of the common challenges many face is saying no to another person. We think it may hurt the other person feelings. We worry the other person to take it personally. We assume it may affect the relationship. And so on.

But saying no is an important skill. It helps you to be truthful and honest. It guides you to your truth and authenticity. It makes you real and genuine in your social interactions. And best of all, it focuses you on what truly matters to you in this very moment.

If you are a sensitive person and struggle in this area, you may wonder: But how can I say no without hurting the other person’s feelings? For this, I remember a YouTube video by Robbin Sharma when he said: You can speak up your mind and say anything since it is with full respect and integrity. If respect and acceptance are applied well in your conversation, then you can say anything you want even if it is the word “NO”.

Another theme I like to attach with this is expressing your deep and true self. Many people nowadays live to show the other person, to prove themselves, to fit in and to mingle up in the tribe. Unfortunately this is a fake way of living. It is just pretending to be someone you are actually not.

So saying no is really a way to reveal your true self, your needs and what matters to you in this moment. It is also a way to prioritize your wellbeing both mentally and emotionally. And if you worry that this can make you sound like selfish, trust me. This is good selfish and not bad.