Amazing Ways to say No
It’s time to stop wasting time on unnecessary tasks and patients.
Get back time to spend on the things that matter.
Good news! There are many ways to say “No”. When saying No, it’s important to be direct and polite. Here are some simple approaches to get your time back with “No” right now:
I can’t; I don’t have any more room in my calendar.
I can’t, but let me see if I can recommend someone else.
I can’t, I have another commitment.
I can’t, I have no experience with that.
I can’t, I need to focus my attention on (Project X) right now.
I can’t, I’m already in the middle of several projects.
I can’t, I’m not taking on any new responsibilities right now.
I can’t, I would rather decline than do a mediocre job.
I can’t, I would rather help with a different task.
I can’t, some things have come up that need my attention.
I can’t, that’s not really my strong suit/not my area of expertise.
No.
Regrettably, I'm not able to.
It's that time of the year where I must say 'No.'
You're so kind to think of me, but I can’t.
Sounds great, but I can’t commit.
I’m slammed right now, so I have to take a raincheck.
I’ll need to bow out.
I’m not taking on new things.
I won’t be able to help.
If only I had a clone!
I’m not able to set aside the time needed.
I won’t be able to dedicate the time I need to it.
I’m head-down right now on a project, so won’t be able to.
I wish there were two of me!
I’m honored, but can’t.
I’ve got too much on my plate right now.
I’m not taking on anything else right now.
Bandwidth is low, so I won’t be able to make it work.
I wish I could make it work.
Not possible right now.
I wish I were able to.
I’d love to, but can’t.
Unfortunately, it’s not a good time.
I’m flattered you considered me, but unfortunately I’ll have to pass this time.
I can't make it work.
It just won't fit right now.
I promised X that I would focus on Y, so I’m all booked up.
I appreciate you’re thinking of me but I can’t.
I hear your concern, but I can’t help right now.
Ideas via FutureThink.