I have read many books that outline the concept of saying no and saying no more often. The Power of a Positive No by William Ury, co-founder of Harvard University’s negotiation program, is one example.

Every time I read about this concept, I make a commitment to do better at saying no… and then maybe stick with it for a few months.

I have been reviewing this concept, as I am currently evaluating several new investment opportunities and trying to determine how to use my time.

Here are a few tips that have proven beneficial for me over the years:

1. There is power in the phrase, “Let me get back to you.” Why do we think we need to give an answer right then and there? In the old days, we could say, “Let me check my calendar.” In the digital age where everyone’s work and personal calendars are shared, it becomes tougher to use that expression, but just own it.

2. Take time to process. Silence can be awkward, but take time to think over, “Is this task/meeting/request/etc. essential?” If not, then find a way to politely decline. For example, you could say, “I’m overcommitted right now and can’t take this project on.”

3. Utilize “No but…” Being in the service industry, I have been conditioned to say yes to everything. I find tremendous power in saying, “No, but have you asked so-and-so” or “No, but you should check out this resource.”

With this blog post, I renew my commitment to saying no with more confidence and more frequency in an effort to spend more time on the tasks and with the people who matter most to me. I encourage you to do the same.