Saying "No" when you really mean "Yes" can make people feel sad and confused, just like when a friend says they're not coming to play but actually want to come.
Imagine you’re playing with your favorite toy, let’s say it's a red ball. Your best friend comes over and asks if they can join the game. You really want them to be part of the fun, so you mean "Yes," but instead, you say "No." That makes your friend feel like you don’t want them around anymore, even though you do.
Why It Feels Like a Big Mistake
When someone says "No" when they meant "Yes," it's like pretending not to like the red ball, but secretly, you do like it. Your friend might think something is wrong with them or that you're upset, even though you're just confused.
How to Fix It
Next time, if you mean "Yes," say it! It makes everyone happy and helps your friendship grow. Just like the red ball, when everyone plays together, the fun gets bigger!
Examples
- Your partner says no to going on a trip, even though they really wanted to go.
- A parent tells their child they don’t have time for them, when they’re just busy.
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See also
- Which Long-term Relationships Will Survive and Which Won't?
- What are social interactions?
- Why your Partner Lies to you...?
- What IS Trust Actually? | Simon Sinek?
- What is trust?