Unless There’s a Really Good Reason Not to
When someone asks for a favor, just say yes. Most favors don’t take as long as thinking up a reason to turn them down would. Doing one feels better than turning one down does. You might be surprised at the ways that the favor comes back to you. I was reminded of that twice just this week with a lovely gesture and a clever response to a request for a critique. Take a look, if you have the time. I’d love for them to get them your comments.
There’s no rule that says you can’t run a business and have a heart. In fact, I look for a heart in the people I do business with.
–ME “Liz” Strauss
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Hey Liz,
I just visited Keith’s blog… High praises from him.
If I have a real friend on the internet, it is you. 🙂
I hope I can return the favor someday, but I will never be able to write with as much flair as you.
Thanks for your confidence and support, it means so much to have someone with your stature in the blogosphere to notice a relative newcomer.
You’re the Best… Thanks,
Joe
Hey Joe,
Thanks. The feeling goes both ways. How could it not? That’s how friendship works. 🙂
You write with authenticity, that’s what counts. That beats flair any day of the week.
Of course, I’d notice you. You’ve got a heart that’s as big as the blogosphere!
Liz
Gosh Gary,
Thanks! What a cool thing to say. I couldn’t just leave your trackback sitting here unanswered. I really appreciate it.
Liz
Hey Liz,
I am so very touched that someone with so much of a flair for writing can put me as a writing a clever response.
I can only seek your guidance on it, it’s so touching to me and not only am I proud to be a SOB I am proud to know such a wonderful person like you.
Hope your guidance is with me for a long time to come.
Love
Keith
Keith,
I was so tickled by how you turned my response into a post. It showed ingenuity and efficiency, as well as giving me a sweet respect and compliment by asking me if you could use my work.
I had no idea that’s what you meant when you asked to use it. I laughed when I saw your post for the first time, thinking, “This young man is going places.” He knows how to get things done and make friends at the same time.” It was brilliant! 🙂
smiles,
Liz
It’s good to say Yes to those who ask for a favor. Being of help to someone is really a good thing. Just make sure when you say Yes, you really mean it, and you’re willing to put in commitment and dedication to it.
But of course, we have to know when to say No as well. I think there are certain times when saying No is good too.
Nice post.
Hi Neil,
Good point, Neil. There’s nothing worse than saying you’ll come through and not showing up. It only makes me sit and wonder why you bothered to say yes in the first place. I end up feeling like I’ve been conned–sort of the same feeling as a “one night stand.”
Gotta be there, gotta do it. That’s what favors are about.
Knowing when to say no is important, particularly to folks who take advantage of you. Thanks for bringing that up. It needed saying.
Liz