It’s important to uncommit graciously, whether you’ve overbooked yourself, discovered a disagreement, or have another reason why you can’t or don’t want to take part in a project.
By doing this, you can maintain good relationships and your reputation. The author gives six suggestions to assist you in politely and professionally say no after you’ve already said yes:
1. Take the price into consideration- Verify if pulling out is the appropriate choice before breaking the news. Take opportunity cost into account.
2. Change your viewpoint- Accept the idea that continuing with the task knowing you couldn’t do it would be selfish and improper if you’re afraid that saying no after saying yes will make you seem irresponsible.
- Act with tact while being honest- When it’s time to communicate, do it with confidence and clarity without going into too much detail.
- Maintain the connection- Any error, misunderstanding, or even overextending yourself should be acknowledged with an apology and acceptance of responsibility. After all, the other party was depending on you and may have made arrangements with your involvement in mind.
- Present a substitute- If you actually wish to assist, suggest a different timetable or a new date.
- Takeaway lessons- Although backing out of obligations is uncomfortable and uncomfortable, it can teach you an important lesson and provide you motivation to overcome people-pleasing traits that may be preventing you from achieving more success.
Source:https://hbr.org/2021/09/how-to-say-no-after-saying-yes
