Saying "no" with grace and honesty can be challenging. Sometimes our fear of ending a conversation awkwardly or letting a friend or relative down can nudge us into saying "yes" to things that are difficult for us. When managing a chronic condition, saying "no" can feel more complicated. Will they ever ask again? Will the invites stop coming? Have I said "no" too often?

An alternative way to say "no" is to create a third option, another choice. For instance, you are invited to a barbecue, but you don’t have the energy to socialize in a group setting. You could say, “I won’t make it to the barbecue, but maybe we can get coffee next week?”

Bad days or symptoms arising out of the blue are beyond your control. Asking for a raincheck or suggesting a future get-together instead shows it's important to you but lets you focus on self-care.

Here are some conversations from the community about this topic:

“I'm flattered by the offer, but I simply don't have the stamina.”

“A lady called today looking for a caregiver for a woman with dementia. I had to tell her I wasn't available anymore. Hopefully I can find someone who is qualified and has good references.”

“Right now I am disgusted and not fit for socializing.”

Have you found alternative ways of saying "no," without saying "no?"
Share in the comments below.