Time: < 30 Minutes 

STEP 1: Whether at work or in a personal relationship, when someone asks you to do something, determine if:

1. You truly have time, and
2. Determine if you NEED to do whatever it is that they are asking.
3.  

Is it your responsibility or are they trying to push it off onto you because you’ve said yes in the past? If it is your responsibility determine when it is needed. Managing expectations with the requestor is key.

STEP 2: If you determine that this is something you want to, need to, or must do ask them WHEN they need it.

• If their answer is “yesterday” decide if it is feasible to drop everything for them (or ask your manager if you need their insight).
• If they give you a vague answer or unrealistic timeframe, push back and give them your proposed deadline based on your other projects and duties. Give yourself a day longer than you think it will take to complete so you can either under promise and overdeliver or can handle anything unexpected that comes your way and still meet your deadline.

STEP 3: Many times you can decrease your stress in this area simply by asking when they need their deliverables. If you are uncomfortable with asking when or saying not now, practice on others or use a therapist, coach, mentor, or accountability partner to strengthen your skills and confidence in this area.