1. Think about a time when you agreed to do something that you did not really want to do. Describe the situation.
- Example: I agreed to help a classmate with their homework even though I had my own assignments to finish and was already tired.
2. What were your reasons for wanting to say no?
- Example: I needed time to rest and complete my own work, and I felt overwhelmed by the extra responsibility.
3. Why didn’t you say no?
- Example: I didn’t want to seem selfish or hurt their feelings, and I worried they would think less of me.
4. By saying yes to this request, what did you say no to in your own life?
- Example: I said no to my own rest, my personal time, and my ability to focus on my priorities.
5. Write down three different polite ways you can tell someone no the next time you need to do so. Practice saying them in front of a mirror until you become comfortable saying the words.
- Example 1: “I’d love to help, but I’m swamped right now. Can I get back to you later?”
- Example 2: “I appreciate you asking, but I need to focus on my own tasks right now.”
- Example 3: “I’m sorry, I can’t take that on — I have other commitments I need to honor.”
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of life skills worksheet for youth.
