Learn to say, “No.”

During the second year of my retirement, I received a telephone call asking for a favor.
“Could you please come to my school to be our permanent substitute?”
Taking a deep breath before answering, I knew that my response was not what he wanted to hear. “I’m sorry, but I don’t want to sub.”
“But you’re really needed. If you don’t want the job permanently, you could be an on-call sub.”
“Look, if the teachers are throwing a party, call me. If you want a sub, lose my number.”
He laughed and said, “You must really enjoy retirement.”
Oh, yes, I am. As much as I enjoyed teaching, I’ve discovered that there is a life during retirement. One of the biggest problems during this time is that people will ask for a favor then make you feel guilty for saying, “No.”
Get over it! Don’t let people use up your time and energy. Practice saying, “No,” in the mirror until you perfect the skill. Having a hard time with that? Try saying, “I’ll get back to you on that when I check my schedule.” Then decide if the favor is something you really want to grant. But be careful that the favor is a “one time” thing and not an on-going responsibility. It is okay if a parent, adult child, grandchild or close friend wants a favor and you say, “I can’t do it at this time.” Simply put into your schedule the times when you will be available to do something for them if you wish. I’m not telling you to be selfish; I’m just suggesting that you guard your precious time carefully.
Don’t give concert reasons for not granting the favor. That’s when others will say your reason isn’t good enough. Try saying, “I’m already committed on that day.” Don’t feel that you must justify your every activity.
Remember you’re retired. You are your own boss. Use time wisely.