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the fine art of saying no

In our society , in some circles , saying no to anyone at any time for any reason has become taboo. It is currently fashionable to be a positive person and go around saying yes to everything and everyone we encounter.
Well in my life thus far I have learned after being on the planet for almost 48 years that attempting to do that is not "doable" and actually could be viewed as its own special form of OCD.
I have tried to do it and find that I end up feeling like a rung out, torn up old dish rag for all my efforts.
There is more merit and value, I have learned, in choosing how to invest your time in those things that are worthwhile to you and enrich your existance in some way. We do not always have the choice to say no. We are most of us tied to jobs and commitments in which we have already entered into agreements whereby we must comply to many things. What I am suggesting is that in the little bit of time and space you still call your own, do not be afraid to stand up and proclaim " No, I will not do that!".
If you cannot bring yourself to actually say the word for fear of being labelled in some uncomplimentary way then I will suggest to you some phrases that will get the job of noncompliance done.
- I will have to consider that
- I need to check my schedule to see if I am free
- what a great idea I need to think that over
- let me get back to you on that
- unfortunately my schedule will not permit that at this time
- I have a conflict with that
- when I have an opening I will definatley consider that

There is a reason that most 2 year olds go through a "no" stage. It because when we realize we are separate unto ourselves we want a control over our own lives. I say we should embrace the wisdom we had when we were two. Our world and the world in general may be much improved for doing it.
As a very well known anti drug campaign counselled in the 1980's...
just say no.
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