Saying 'No' Without Upsetting Co-Workers & Clients

One of the most powerful statements you can make to someone is "no." It can immediately trigger some strong reactions ranging from quiet resentment to outright rage.

In my little kids, it can trigger a tantrum. We let our kids watch thirty minutes of the movie "Cars" last night and boy were they unhappy when we said "no" to more movie time. So clearly it's a powerful word. But is there a more effective of way of saying "no" without triggering all the sound and fury that comes along with it?

Here are a few stories and suggestions I want to pass along.