The Art of Saying “No” in December: Protecting Your Time So you don’t burn out
December brings all the festive cheer we look forward to each year. But along with it comes an overwhelming amount of invitations, last-minute work requests, and personal obligations that can quickly drain our energy.
On reflection, one of the things that I got better at was asking questions and trying to understand where the priority and urgency of a request lay. Often through a discussion there were a few options - most of the time these resulted in a lot less work than initially anticipated.
Learning the art of saying “no” isn’t about rejecting people; it’s about protecting your well-being and making sure you can truly enjoy the season without burnout. Here’s how to set graceful boundaries and preserve your energy while still celebrating the spirit of the holidays.
1. Pause and Prioritize
Before you say “yes” to another task or invite, take a moment to evaluate its importance. Is this something that aligns with your personal or professional priorities? Can it be delegated, postponed, or simplified? Ask yourself if saying “yes” is worth the time and energy it will require, and give yourself permission to decline anything that doesn’t serve your best interests or well-being.
Tip: Not everything is urgent or essential. Take time to evaluate requests based on their genuine importance, allowing yourself to focus only on what matters most.
2. Ask Key Questions to Gauge Importance and Urgency
When faced with last-minute work requests or social invitations, practice asking clarifying questions. Some good ones to consider are:
“Is there a specific deadline for this, or can it wait until after the holidays?”
“Is this something I need to handle, or is there someone else who can help?”
“What’s the expected outcome, and how critical is my involvement?”
These questions help you assess whether the request is worth your time or if it can be better managed by someone else or at a different time.
Negotiation Tip: Remember, you’re not rejecting people. By seeking clarity, you’re ensuring the best outcome for both you and your colleagues or loved ones.
3. Set Clear Boundaries Without Guilt
Setting boundaries isn’t selfish; it’s essential. If you’re already stretched thin, communicate your limits kindly and confidently. A simple “I’d love to help, but I have a lot on currently - can we see what the options are” or “I have a lot scheduled in up until the Christmas break, can we put some time in our diaries to discuss further” can go a long way. Boundaries also allow you to preserve your energy for the most important events and people in your life.
Boundaries Tip: Think of boundaries as a way of saying “yes” to what truly matters. They enable you to give your best to what’s most important.
4. Negotiate a Better Outcome
Sometimes saying “no” doesn’t mean outright rejection. It can mean adjusting expectations or coming up with an alternative plan. Instead of taking on a full project, could you offer a smaller contribution? Or could you assist in finding someone else to help? By offering a compromise, you protect your time while also showing you’re willing to help where you can.
Pro Tip: Negotiation doesn’t just benefit you; it often leads to better outcomes for everyone involved by encouraging teamwork and efficiency.
5. Give Yourself Permission to Enjoy the Season
December is a time for celebration, connection, and rest. Don’t let a packed calendar take away the joy of the season. Give yourself the gift of downtime and allow space for activities that truly uplift you. Whether that’s spending time with loved ones, getting some fresh air, or simply having a quiet night in, prioritizing your peace of mind is a form of self-care that benefits everyone around you.
Conclusion:
This December, remember that protecting your time is essential for keeping your energy and joy intact. Saying “no” with kindness and clarity allows you to focus on what truly matters, ensuring a holiday season that leaves you feeling fulfilled, not frazzled. Embrace the art of setting boundaries, and enjoy a December filled with balance, celebration, and true holiday spirit.