“The art of leadership is saying no, not yes. It is very easy to say yes.” — Tony Blair

I find this fascinating, partly because I heard we need to say yes as much as we can so that when we say no, it has more meaning.

If this is the art of leadership, then we need to consider several thoughts.

Is there a valid reason for saying no? We should always give a valid reason and be ready to explain that reason.

How will this answer affect the overall goals? It we must say no, at least consider the way the answer will alter what we are working to accomplish.

Have all angles been considered before responding? A quick response without examining the angles may be the wrong answer. Gather all facts first, then give a response.

What are the alternatives? The answer to this question is as vital as any other. If we are going to say no, be ready to give an alternative.

A “no” response based on few of these ideas will help the morale and production of any group desiring to reach a goal.