Insights from ‘The Art of Saying No’ by Damon Zahariades Flashcards
What is the single greatest way to improve productivity according to Damon Zahariades?
To say ‘no’ more often.
Fill in the blank: The phrase ‘If you respectfully say “no” to a one-hour meeting, you _____.’
magically create an hour to get your work done.
True or False: Saying ‘yes’ to everyone helps you achieve balance and personal satisfaction.
False
Why do many people find it difficult to say ‘no’?
People are conditioned from a young age to say ‘yes’ to avoid negative feedback or rejection.
According to Zahariades, what do people wrongly assume when they say ‘yes’ too often?
They wrongly assume that their own goals and interests are inferior to others’.
Fill in the blank: ‘Every time you say “yes,” you say “no” to _____.’
something you value.
How does saying ‘no’ benefit your relationships, according to Zahariades?
It makes your time more valuable, as people appreciate what is hard to attain.
Name one of the ‘three Ps’ to remember before saying ‘yes’ to a request.
People, project, or personal wellbeing.
What is an example of a ‘categorical no’?
‘I don’t drink on weekdays.’
True or False: Referencing a personal commitment is an effective way to say ‘no’ without conflict.
True
Why might counteroffers be a useful strategy when saying ‘no’?
They allow you to decline the initial request while still offering help in a limited capacity.
Fill in the blank: ‘Imagine yourself a week from now, _____ because you said “no” to the activities that would help you recharge.’
burnt out and exhausted
How can you make a ‘no’ seem less personal and more objective?
By framing it as a categorical statement, like ‘I have a rule’ or ‘I don’t.’
Give an example of saying ‘no’ by referencing a commitment.
‘I’m fully committed to a project right now, so I need to turn down your request.’
How can preparing a list of commitments in advance help you say ‘no’?
It provides ready-made, respectful reasons to decline requests when needed.
