Productivity Principle: The Positive ‘No’ Flashcards
Why do people often say ‘Yes’ when they want to say ‘No’?
People often say ‘Yes’ due to a lack of clear purpose, fear of social awkwardness, and ingrained desires for social conformity.
Fill in the blank: ‘Each external ‘No’ is an inward _____.’
Yes
True or False: Saying ‘No’ to a request means denying the person making the request.
False
Who are the authors mentioned in relation to the ‘Positive No’ concept?
Greg McKeown and William Ury
What is one personal benefit of learning to say ‘No’ effectively?
It leads to long-term respect and demonstrates conviction and commitment to personal values.
What is ‘normative conformity’?
Normative conformity is the desire to fit into a group, a trait deeply ingrained from our ancestral need for survival in tribes.
Fill in the blank: ‘When we say ‘No,’ we’re actually saying ‘Yes’ to a life of ____.’
meaning
According to Greg McKeown, what happens once we separate the decision from the relationship when saying ‘No’?
We can make a clearer decision and then communicate it with courage and compassion.
How can one communicate a ‘Positive No’ without damaging relationships?
By starting with a personal ‘Yes,’ explaining the conflict with their priority, and offering a small way to help.
Fill in the blank: ‘We fear social awkwardness because we are wired to ____ with others.’
get along
According to McKeown, what happens after the initial disappointment when we say ‘No’ effectively?
Respect kicks in, and people admire those with the courage to say ‘No.’
What is a ‘Positive No’ strategy step to use after stating a personal priority?
Continue by stating the conflict with the personal priority.
Why is separating the decision from the relationship important when saying ‘No’?
It allows us to make a clear decision without damaging the relationship.
How can someone say ‘No’ gracefully, according to Greg McKeown?
By saying it firmly, resolutely, and yet gracefully to earn long-term respect.
Comparison: What is the difference between denying a request and denying a person?
Denying a request is a choice regarding time or priorities, while denying a person would imply personal rejection.
