When you have to say "no," what can you offer as an alternative?
The Challenge
Take a minute to consider a recent conversation during which you had to decline a request or invitation. What could you have offered as an alternative, so that you didn't just have to say "no"?
Why do this?
Honor your own goals and priorities. Saying "no" is not automatically a bad thing--in fact, it's often necessary to turn down invitations or requests so that you can spend your time and energy on the things you really care about. However, suggesting an alternative option after saying "no" demonstrates that you are interested in helping the other person make some progress on their priorities, too.
Being able to offer a creative alternative when you can't say "yes" to a specific request shows your commitment to developing strong relationships and influencing the success of others. When others see you as a "yes" person, they recognize and appreciate your ongoing commitment to them.
What’s next?
Get in the habit of pausing for a few seconds when someone asks you for something. Consider how the request might help you meet your individual goals, and/or whether building a stronger relationship with this person is reason enough to grant the request. If you can't grant that particular request, what are you able to offer as an alternative that could still be useful to them? Turn your "no" into, "Would this be helpful instead?"
