Lesson 2 of 8
Saying no with FAST
About 5 min
The goal
Practice a clear, kind no that keeps your self-respect intact.
Do it step by step
- 1
Think of something you want to say no to — or a no you wish you'd said.
- 2
Draft it: Fair (no attack), no over-Apologizing, Stick to your values, Truthful.
- 3
Keep it short: "Thanks for asking, but I can't take that on." Long explanations invite negotiation.
- 4
Say it out loud three times until it sounds steady, not defensive.
For parents
Let a well-formed no from your teen stand whenever possible. Every respected no teaches that honesty is safe at home.
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