Wise Decision-making (includes saying ‘no’)
Introduction
In change management, wise decisions balance
- short-term pressures with long-term sustainability
- the needs of people with the needs of the system
- the risk of action with the risk of inaction
- benefits with the challenges created by the change.
Saying ‘no’
Wise decision-making often involves learning to say ‘no’.
Saying "no" is just as strategic as saying "yes".
“…Learning when and how to decline an opportunity is not about shirking responsibility. It is about protecting your long-term success, sustaining your well-being and ensuring that your energy is directed towards work that truly advances your career and organisation……saying no with respect and professionalism…”
Michelle Gibbings, 2025c
Some strategies for saying ‘no’
Sometimes when saying ‘no’, you need to reframe things so that the response does not appear negative or tactless.
- Express gratitude
You can begin by acknowledging the offer and the trust it implies. A simple ‘thank you for considering me. I appreciate the confidence placed in me’ sets a positive tone
- Explain briefly and positively
Next, provide enough context to be understood without over-explaining or sounding defensive. For example: ‘at the moment, I am fully engaged in initiatives and key priorities and I want to ensure that they are delivered at the highest standard.
- Offer an alternative or compromise
Where possible, suggest a colleague who might benefit from the opportunity or offer limited support. This signals goodwill and solutions-oriented mindset.
- Reaffirm your enthusiasm for future opportunities
Keep the relationship forward-looking:
“…please keep me in mind for future initiatives that align with strategic priorities. I would love to contribute when the timing is right”
Handled this way, ‘no’ becomes not a rejection but rather a redirection. It signals maturity, self-awareness and strategic judgement…”
Michelle Gibbings, 2025c