Blog Post 83: Quick Phrases
It’s tough for Type C people to say no or engage in conflict, we hate to disappoint or upset people. Our default is “sure, no problem,” or we avoid difficult conversations. Having some effective go-to phrases for different situations can help tremendously. Below, we share some good ones.
Say No/ Decline Requests
“I’m flattered you want my help, but I can’t, I’ve got way too much on my plate.”
“I’d like to help out but unfortunately it conflicts with other priorities.”
“Thanks for the invite, but I have a conflict.”
“Thanks for the offer, but I’m going to say no.”
“Thanks for thinking of me, but I’m going to pass.”
“I’d like to help, but I can’t.”
Delay
“I need a bit of time to think about it. I’ll get back to you shortly.”
“I’m not sure. Let me think on it.”
“Let me get back to you.
“I need to check my schedule.”
Workplace Decline
“I would like to help, but I already have so many priorities; could we please discuss which one is the most important at present, and which ones you’d like me to put on hold?”
“I’d like to contribute to that project but I think it makes sense for me to take on a smaller role.”
“I’m juggling a lot right now and won’t be able to give that project the attention it needs.”
Relationships
Time boundary: “I’m happy to keep watching this show for another half hour, but then I’m going to bed.”
Space boundary: “I need some space; I have to get this task completed for work.”
Social boundary: “I can’t go to the movies with you on Saturday, it conflicts with other plans.”
Physical boundary: “Please don’t touch me like that. I don’t like it.”
Conversational boundary: “I’d prefer not to talk about this right now. I’m tired, and I just want to chill. Can we talk about this tomorrow, please?”
Possible Conflict Situations
“Clearly, we have very different opinions about this. And your opinion is valid. Let’s agree to differ.”
“I can see you’re busy and don’t want to be interrupted – and I’d really like to discuss this with you now, because there’s a deadline looming.”
“I realize this must be disappointing for you. However, I’m going to say no, because I just can’t find time right now.”
“I totally get that you don’t like this way of doing things. And I’d appreciate it if you’d work with me on this, even though you have reservations.”