Positive Reflection For The Day Whether it's in the workplace or the more intimate (close) setting of family relationships, perhaps one of the greatest challenges today is developing the ability to say 'NO' for the right reason, at the right moment and in the right way. There are many reasons why we tend to say 'YES' when we know we should say 'NO'. These include the fear of offending (loss of approval), looking incapable (loss of face), avoiding an argument or confrontation (loss of temper) or even feeling guilty at not being there for someone (loss of relationship). When it comes to saying NO, time is not the real issue, it is self-esteem / self-respect. If they are intact they will govern both what you say so and how you say it. Saying NO reactively out of fear or resentment will only generate the same reaction in return. However an assertive and affirmative NO once made is never defended, explained or justified.