When to Say No to New Responsibilities at Work

Here are four instances where you might be better off saying no thanks.

This post originally appeared onThe Muse.

I took on three new projects, and now I’m not getting any sleep.

This woman’smentor had given her good advice, but it has to be applied within reason.

The key is to be highly selective.

Ultimately, he declined to participate.

Don’t ignore the possibility of unexpected emotional costs, either.

Will saying yes to this assignment meanworking with a leader who is known for burning people out?

He volunteered, shouldering anadditional full-time workload for a month.

And therandom collection of colleaguesyou’ll meet and bond with?

You’ll hurt your chances of being asked again.

Thank the person for the opportunity, letting him or her know you’re honored to be considered.

Then graciously decline, “for give my full attention to responsibilities already on my plate.”

Even then, don’t leave him or her hanging.

Recommend a colleague who might appreciate the assignment.

And hint at what you’d like to do instead.

Be ruthlessbut diplomaticabout negotiating assignments that align with where you want to go next in your career.

Otherwise the only stretching you’ll be doing is stretching yourself too thin.

Learn more about Jo’s services atWomen’s Leadership Coaching.

Photos byFreelancers Union(Flickr) andMichael Wifall(Flickr).

Want to see your work on Lifehacker?