Stress to Success Series: How Steve Jobs, Tim Ferris, James Clear Say 'NO'

I have observed CEOs and ‘always on’ entrepreneurs soon learn they need to be able to say 'NO' to prevent themselves from undue stress and burnout.

In my opinion, one of the keys to not feeling ‘guilty’ or feeling like you are ‘letting them down’, is to understand saying NO comes from the basic human right to choose.

In fact, a ‘NO’ is more important than a ‘YES’ to maintain trust and the integrity of your word. For example if you say yes when you are unable to do something or don’t intend to do it, then you are out of integrity with your word. And people will quickly learn to not trust a word of what you say. ?The antidote is obvious - be honest, say ‘NO’ clearly and concisely.

Here's a few different examples of how other successful people say NO.

1.??????Steve Jobs – How to say NO like a badass

Please leave us alone.

Steve Jobs

(to an eager college journalist who was dumbfounded that Apple's media relations team hadn't replied to her)

2.??????Tim Ferris – How to say NO on principle

John, thanks so much for reaching out and apologies for my delayed response.

I have been trying to do too much of late, which makes it hard to keep up with correspondence. I also have to admit I am not good at saying no, because I enjoy meeting people and discussing new ideas. Unfortunately, the truth is that I am maxed out and need to take a step back.

Over the next few months, I will not be taking any new calls or meetings outside of my existing commitments to my business, family and myself. This will give me the energy and time I need to complete some big projects (such as finishing my second book) and be more successful in reaching my most important goals.

This is my blanket policy until I am caught up.

Thanks in advance for your understanding.

Tim Ferriss

3.??????James Clear – How to say no to an interview

Hi John,

First, thank you so much for thinking of me for this opportunity! Unfortunately, my calendar is completely full right now so I'm not going to be able to do this.

I can offer my work as an alternative. You are welcome to share quotes from Atomic Habits or my articles with your audience. I know this isn't quite what you were hoping for, but I'd like to think that his work will be useful to your audience all the same.

I'm sorry I don't have better news. Thank you for understanding and we wish you continued success.

James Clear

4.??????Pay Walls – How to say NO after you already said yes.

Hi {first_name},

I know that I offered to take on this project 3 months ago but things have changed since then and I feel I may not have the time to give your project my 100%. My sincere apologies for this.

I don't want to leave you hanging, so I can recommend a few people who have the skills to handle your project.

I can also offer [INSERT CONSOLATION].

If you have questions or concerns, I'm free and willing to listen.

Pat

5.????OfficeNinjas - How to say NO to donating money

?Hi {{ first_name }},

?That’s a great cause to get behind, thanks for thinking of me!

?This year, my focus is on [INSERT YOUR FAVORITE CHARITY], so I’m saving all my extra change for that.

?I’m rooting for [YOU/YOUR CHILD]—best of luck!

?Esther

?6.??????How to say NO to a pushy salesperson

Hey {{ first_name }},

Thank you for all the help you’ve given up to this point!

We’ve decided to go in another direction, but will keep [COMPANY] in mind for future partnerships that could work out better.

Much appreciated,

John.

?7.??????How to say NO to a project at work

Hello [Name],

?Thanks for thinking of me for [project]. However, I’m going to have to turn this down.

?I want to ensure I continue to do my best with my existing workload and my plate’s a little too full for me to be able to take this on right now.

?Sorry I can’t be of more help!

?Best,

[Your Name]

Grant Wattie is a CEO Confidante | Coach | Professional Counsellor Helping Founders Leaders and Entrepreneurs Increase Happiness and Performance