Ways to Say “No” During the Holiday Season

For many of us, the holiday season is the most socially stressful time of year. Relatives popping up out of nowhere. There are more social events scheduled in November and December than maybe the entire rest of the year. All of a sudden everyone seems to expect more of you while also not respecting your own personal boundaries. I’m looking at you, Older Relative Who Insists On Knowing Why People Aren’t Married.

Saying NO is hard.

It shouldn’t be. No is a complete sentence after all. Easier said that done though! Societal expectations are real, and the world we live in often wants us to behave in a certain way – ESPECIALLY around the holidays.

But that doesn’t mean you need to give in. Below are some kind, yet firm, ways you can say no in order to maintain your own sense of self and peace this year.

“I appreciate the offer, but it’s just not something I can do right now.”

“I don’t feel comfortable doing that, but I really love that you thought to include me.”

“That isn’t something I’d like to talk about right now, but I’d love to tell you more about _____”

“I’m not comfortable sharing that right now, but how is _____ going with you?”

“I’ll have to get back to you on that, I’ll need to see how I feel closer to the date. I’m going to do my best to make it though!”

“I don’t know if I have the bandwidth for that activity, but what about ___ instead?”

Want more support setting boundaries in the new year? Schedule a free consult with one of the therapists on our team.