How to be unavailable
The only resource you have is your time. Are you capable of saying no and setting boundaries? Or are you too available?
When we’re over-extended, we begin to resent those who take up our time. Besides, people who care about you don’t want you saying yes out of some sort of imagined obligation.
Set up your velvet rope with these phrases:
I’m not going to be able to participate this time. I need to focus on…
Sorry, I can’t help, but good luck with the fundraising.
We’ve decided to celebrate the holidays at home this year, but we’ll miss seeing you.
And as always, recognize their needs behind the request.
For instance, you can say, "I appreciate that you trust me enough to take on this project, however..."
