How do you say no?

[Nerdynerdynerd]

I'm working on my boundaries and thought it would be interesting to hear how you say no if you don't want to go somewhere, do something or take on extra responsibility.

The worst one is when someone wants a favour. Someone asked me for a lift the other day. I had time and petrol but I didn't want to. It was 40 minutes round trip out of my way And i dont enjoy their company . Theyre not a friend. Barely an acquaintance and I've now set a precedent. I didn't even say as a one off I went the extra mile and said "sure, it's no bother"... what is wrong with me?!

Also struggle with refusing extra responsibility at work when I'm already at full capacity.

I know "no is a full sentence" but for someone working on boundaries it just sounds too harsh! I need a plan to avoid waffling or caving in.

I just say I don't have time. But a 40min round trip for someone you don't even like is bonkers. You need to contact them ASAP and say something has come up and you can't now commit to driving them. Also, it's irrelevant whether you have petrol in your tank. If someone is demanding a lift they need to stump up the cash for it.

I just say I can't, sorry. Too busy.

Sorry, that won't work for me.

"I'm sorry, I have other commitments that mean I'm not able to do that. Best of luck sorting it out.

If they are nosey enough to ask "what" you just look them in the eye with a raised eyebrow and repeat "other commitments".