Foundation
Decline a request you cannot fit
Whena new request exceeds your capacity
Check the request against your commitments. If it cannot fit, decline clearly. Offer an alternative only if you can honor it. For assigned work, ask what should move.
- Try saying
- I can’t take that on this week.
Start tiny
Say that you need to check capacity.
SafetyIf you fear retaliation or harm, choose safer support instead of confrontation.
Evidence grade CPractitioner method or editorial idea
Mayo Clinic. Being assertive: Reduce stress, communicate better. Read the source ↗ Documented communication guidance; capacity and everyday examples are adaptations.
Foundation: The load-bearing practices you return to. Build the base and keep it in play.
