Well, folks, Budweiser, this past week, came up with an “innovative” tagline for their Bud Light beer – “The perfect beer for removing ‘no’ from your vocabulary for the night”. Following the resulting backlash – because, seriously, WHAT were they thinking?! – the company has backpedalled and apologized for the tagline. But what has us shocked is the fact that this went live in the first place! In a world where people are pressurized constantly to do things they don’t necessarily want to, how on earth did they not think this through? “No” means “no”, guys – it doesn’t mean “get me so drunk that I will agree to anything you say”! If we are not comfortable doing something, we shouldn’t be doing it – and nobody gets to say otherwise. Especially when it comes to these situations. These are the times when it’s TOTALLY fine to say no!
1. When you’re being forced to drink
You don’t want to – that’s a good enough reason. You could come up with excuses, sure, but you shouldn’t have to. Whether it’s because you never drink or you just don’t want to right now, it’s YOUR decision.
2. When you have an opportunity everyone thinks is great (and it probably is), but you just don’t feel it’s right for you
So, you got a great job offer – it pays really well and comes with lots of perks. This guy asked you out – everyone thinks he’s fantastic and loves him. But does it feel right to you? If they don’t, just stand firm. After all, you’re going to be the one to do that job and date that guy – it really is no one else’s business.
3. When someone wants to have sex with you, and you don’t want it
Sure, it’s flattering that someone is interested in you and all that, but if YOU don’t want it, a no is what your answer should be – and the answer that they have to live with. Never be embarrassed or feel shy about voicing your opinion because you’re afraid of hurting anyone’s feelings. If you’re not ready, you’re just not ready. Your body, your choice.
4. When everyone wants to go out, but you just want to crawl into bed after a long day
We all have our ways of dealing with stress. For some people it’s partying it up, for some of us it’s all about collapsing at home and doing nothing. Sure, your friends only want you to have fun, but if you’re so tired that the thought of their company isn’t exciting you, just say no. Don’t let yourself be guilt-tripped into doing something that you’re not comfortable with. Your true friends will understand your needs.
5. When someone asks for a favour you’re just not up for
Whether it’s a friend or a family member, if it is an act of help or kindness that is going to cost you your peace of mind, it is okay to say no. Yes, they’re going to be unhappy sure, but in the long run, for the sake of a healthy relationship, it is better that you say no now than stretch yourself and regret and resent later.
6. When someone wants to borrow money – and you know you’re not going to get it back for a long time
If someone is in desperate need or it’s an actual emergency, you should definitely help him or her out. But know this, borrowing money to buy a new pair of jeans or to go out partying every Friday does not fall under that category. No matter how close this person is to you, do not let yourself be taken advantage of. If you’re feeling used, just say no.
7. When you’re just not in the mood
We’re not saying be selfish. But we are saying it’s okay to be self-absorbed once in a while. You need to sometimes look after your own happiness – and if what you’re being asked to do won’t contribute to that happiness, go ahead and say no. It’s perfectly okay to!
GIFs: tumblr
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