The Power of No

Ever found yourself saying yes and then having mad regrets? I feel you. As a chronic (and hopefully, recovering) people pleaser, I know firsthand how difficult it can be to say no. No can feel like you are letting down the team, it can feel humiliating or shameful and no is often really hard.

Yes, on the other hand, feels easy. Yes feels bold and helpful. Yes is “I can do it” even if you really cannot. Yes is powerful, but at what cost?

The words you use hold power

Recently,I was approached by a business owner who needed some emails written for them. As a copywriter, I write emails for businesses all week long! This is where the tricky part arrived. You see, this beautiful person had an established business whose purpose and ethics clashed with my own. Whilst I could have donned the persona of someone else and used my words to carefully plot out emails for them, in their tone and brand; I said no.

Boy, let me tell you, that no was hard. I’m talking, really hard. I found myself rehearsing the conversation over and over the night before. I prepared myself mentally and I embraced the power my words hold. With kindness, I approached this business and explained that simply, we are not in alignment with our ethics.

No can be hard, but no is also very brave

10 minutes went by and I was beginning to wonder if I had made the right decision. What if she was offended? What if my no was not what she wanted to hear? It was at that point I realised that my feelings matter too. When they came back to me with such grace, compassion and understanding, all of that fear melted away I was left feeling so proud of myself. I stood up for what matters to me and didn’t allow myself to fall victim to the easy way out (yes!).

When you are writing your next email, having a conversation with a customer or a client; remember that your words are powerful. This is your permission to say no and to advocate for yourself, your business and your values.

If you find yourself struggling to find the right words, reach out to me and let’s have a friendly chat. I am passionate about helping businesses succeed with their customer emails, social media and website. Getting your message out there in the right way, the first time.