We have an intrinsic desire for connection with other people — it’s vital to our existence, said Vanessa Bohns, Ph.D., a professor of organizational behavior at Cornell University, in an essay published in Real Simple. We are concerned that saying no may cause these ties to be severed.

“No” may be a difficult word to say since it might seem harsh and unpleasant, mainly if you haven’t made friends with the word before. Tell yourself: “I have a difficult time saying no, but I understand that I will not accomplish my most essential objectives until I do.” You can also substitute “No” with one of these softer but no less forceful alternative responses.

“Modern economic development is hand-to-hand combat,” Payne said. “It is a different story than it was 30 years ago. If we want to compete today and win projects, then we have to change the way we attract business.”

“You can’t keep throwing money at a problem and expect it to improve. That’s where accountability and performance metrics matter. Richmond needs to stop dictating and be open to alternative methods that get results.”

I leaned right, Mike leaned left, though he never belonged to either political party. He aligned with conservatives on many issues and with progressives on many others. He was a man without an ideological home. He liked it that way.