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Just say 'No' is harder than it sounds
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Published: June 11, 2009
Two letters, one syllable, zero excuses.
For such a small word, "No" is mighty hard to say.
My problem is, people's requests for help aren't unreasonable.
Of course, I want to help out and support the youth sports association. My kids play, so why shouldn't I give my time to the board of parent volunteers that makes it all tick?
Certainly, I want to send in a treat for the end-of-school party. I'm no busier than any other mom, so why should I decline?
Definitely, I can watch my friend's three kids while she is out of town for the day. Hasn't she bailed me out a million times before?
And, sure. No problem. I'd be happy to take on an extra shift at work. After all, those guys pitch in for me when I'm out.
Problem is, when you add it all up, I have a big problem. There are only so many hours in the day, and there is only one of me, so I can stretch just so thin before I snap.
That must have been what happened to me yesterday, when someone asked if I'd be willing to lead a fundraiser. It was a great cause, and the person was someone I like. Helping out wouldn't really take that much time.
But instead of immediately saying "Yes," I hesitated. A million excuses ran through my head.
What finally came out was "Maybe."
It's not a "No," but it's progress. Hopefully, by the time we run back into each other, I will have either been calmed by the slightly less scheduled days of summer, or will have steeled my nerves enough to choke out a refusal.
One word. Two letters. Zero guilt.
Fat chance.
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