Feek annoying when your time’s taken up by others? Actually, you do have some alternatives to make the situation better. However, some are easy to apply while others may be more difficulty.

Here’s How:

1. Just say, "I’m sorry; I am not able to do this right now." Use a sympathetic, but firm tone. If pressured as to why, reply that it doesn’t fit with your schedule, and change the subject. Most reasonable people will accept this as an answer, so if someone keeps pressuring you, they’re being rude, and it’s okay to just repeat, "I am sorry, but this just does not fit with my schedule,' and change the subject, or even walk away if you have to.

2. If you are uncomfortable being so firm, or are dealing with very pushy people, it is okay to say, "Let me think about it and get back to you." This gives you a chance to review your schedule, as well as your feelings about saying 'yes' to another commitment, do a cost-benefit analysis, and then get back to them with a yes or no. Most importantly, this tactic helps you avoid letting yourself be pressured into overscheduling your life and taking on too much stress.

3. If you would really like to do what they are requesting, but don’t have the time (or are having trouble accepting that you don’t), it’s okay to say, “I can’t do this, but I can…" and mention a lesser commitment that you can make. This way you’ll still be partially involved, but it will be on your own terms.

Tips:

1. Be firm (not defensive or overly apologetic) and polite. This gives the signal that you are sympathetic, but will not easily change your mind if pressured.

2. If you decide to tell the person you will get back to them, sound very matter-of-fact, and not too promising. If you lead people to believe you’ll likely say 'yes' later, they’ll be more disappointed with a later 'no'.

3. If asked for an explanation, remember that you really do not owe anyone one. "It does not fit with my schedule" is perfectly acceptable.

4. Remember that there are only so many hours in the day. This means that whatever you choose to take on, limits your ability to do other things. So even if you somehow can fit a new commitment into your schedule, if it is not more important than the things you would have to give up to do it (including time for relaxation and self care), you really don’t have the time in your schedule!