3-2-1: On control, saying no, and keeping an open mind
Second, we must give our brains the right amount of autonomy. When we have a choice, our brains often want to default to something easy. But we can mitigate that response by challenging ourselves to be innovative and provide incentives. For example, instead of debating whether to make a healthy choice at lunch, ask yourself: Do I want this fresh sa
... See morehbr.org • How to Convince Yourself to Do Hard Things
It is much less painful to offer an immediate, polite ‘no thank you’ than to agree to do something and then later regret it. [By the way, if you find it hard to say ‘no’ to nice people – as I do – try setting up automated ‘canned responses’ for your emails. Having a set text to click saves you having to actually type mean things to friendly people
... See moreAlastair Humphreys • The Doorstep Mile: Live More Adventurously Every Day
When you say no to something small, it could help to build your courage to say no to something bigger. Remember, it’s not for the sake of saying no. It’s so you can say yes to what really matters.