Say Yes to Saying No! Real Simple Magazine Interview

Watch for my advice on getting better at saying "no" in Jan. 2017 Real Simple Magazine cover story!This month's Real Simple magazine cover story is about the power of saying NO. I chatted with article writer Jennifer King Lindley and shared tips for setting healthy boundaries.

We are socialized to feel responsible for the feelings and well-being of those around us," says Julie de Azevedo Hanks, Ph.D. a licensed clinical social worker in Salt Lake City and author of The Assertiveness Guide for Women.

How to say no to a friend who constantly sends emails and invitations for product lines she sells from home?

Be supportive but direct. "I'm so glad you've found a passion you can use your great skills in!" suggests Hanks. "But I'm just not interested in buying any candles right now. Humor can help, maybe, "I have enough candles for the rest of my life even if the power was out forever." End it there or, if you're close, offer to support her in a way that doesn't involve your credit card.

My sister is going through a divorce and asked to move in with us until she can get back on her feet. My own marriage is strained, and having her in the house would ratchet up the pressure even more.

Think of your priorities as concentric circles. In the center is you, then your spouse and kids, then your extended family, then friends, then acquaintances," says Hanks. "Reframe how you think about the decision. You are saying no to save your marriage, not because you are a bad sister."

There are many other great tips for saying no in the New Year. Pick up your copy at the grocery store, book store, or magazine rack.Read the entire article here Say Yes to Saying No (pdf download) Download free chapter of The Assertiveness Guide for Women