When to Say Yes and When to Say No to Extra Work Commitments
We’ve all been there - those “Can you just…?” moments at work. They start small: a quick favour here, an extra task there. And sure, saying yes can be great for your personal and professional growth, but what happens when those small asks start piling up? Suddenly, your “extra” tasks feel like a second full-time job, and you're left wondering how you got here.
In this article, we’ll explore the benefits and boundaries of taking on extra work responsibilities, how to recognise when it’s too much, and how to say no without damaging your reputation.
When to say “yes” to extra work commitments
1. There’s a clear professional benefit
Before you say yes, ask yourself, “Will this help me grow?”. If the task supports your career goals, such as developing a new skill, gaining leadership experience, or positioning you for a promotion, it’s worth considering.
2. It improves your day-to-day life
Not every extra commitment has to be about climbing the career ladder. Sometimes, it’s about doing something that brings you joy or purpose, like volunteering for a charity initiative. If it boosts your wellbeing or adds meaning to your workday, that’s a win.
3. It’s a high-visibility project
Visibility matters in the workplace, so if the task puts you in front of senior leaders, stakeholders, or decision-makers, it’s a great chance to showcase your skills and make a lasting impression. These moments can open doors you didn’t even know existed.
4. The task is lower risk
Some projects come with pressure, while others are more forgiving. If the task is relatively low stakes and gives you room to experiment or learn without major consequences, it’s a great opportunity to stretch yourself in a safe space.
5. There’s a chance to prove yourself
If you’re new to a team, role, or company, saying “yes” to extra work can be a great way to show what you’re made of. While it’s important not to overextend yourself (especially in those early weeks), stepping up for the right opportunity can help you build trust, demonstrate initiative, and highlight your strengths.
When to say “no” to extra work commitments
1. The request is unrealistic
If someone asks you to whip up a full strategy in an afternoon or complete a week’s worth of work by tomorrow, it’s not just ambitious - it’s unrealistic. You know your role and what’s achievable. This is your cue to set boundaries and protect your time.
2. There’s no deadline in sight
“Can you just work on this… indefinitely?” Vague timelines are a red flag. If a task has no clear endpoint, it’s easy for it to become a never-ending side project. Before you say yes, ask for a deadline. If there isn’t one, it’s okay to say no, or at least ask for clarity before committing.
3. It’s outside your job scope
Helping out beyond your role can be great for growth, but only when it’s relevant. If you're in marketing and someone asks you to help with finance, it’s probably time to politely decline. Stretching is fine; straying too far can lead to confusion, burnout, and missed opportunities in your actual role.
4. It risks your core responsibilities
Excited about a new project? Great! But if it means your main responsibilities will suffer, it’s worth reconsidering. Taking on too much can poorly affect your impact and lead to missed deadlines or lower-quality work. Your core tasks should always come first.
5. You’re not being appreciated
A few extra tasks here and there is normal. But if you're being asked to reskill, work overtime, or take on a major responsibility outside your job description, it’s fair to ask, “Is this going to be noticed or valued?”. It’s important that you and those around you recognise your value and ensure your time is respected.
6. Your wellbeing is taking a hit
No opportunity is worth sacrificing your sanity. If your calendar is bursting, your sleep is suffering, or your personal life is starting to feel like a distant memory, it’s time to step back. When you’re rested, balanced, and mentally present, you do better work and make better decisions. So, if the extra commitment is tipping the scales too far, it’s perfectly okay to say no (or at least, not right now).
How to say “no” to extra work
So, you’ve had that moment of clarity that you can’t actually take on anything else right now. But now comes the tricky part: how do you say no without sounding like you don’t care? It doesn’t have to be awkward, confrontational, or wrapped in guilt, and saying no can be respectful, professional, and even helpful! Here are a few friendly, constructive ways to decline extra work while keeping your relationships intact:
- “I’d love to help, but I’m currently focused on other priorities.”
Shows enthusiasm while reinforcing your current commitments. - “I’m stretched thin at the moment, but I’d be happy to revisit this later.”
Keeps the door open without overpromising. - “I want to give this the attention it deserves, but I don’t have the capacity right now.”
Emphasises quality and care to your work. - “I’m honoured you thought of me, but I’m not able to take this on at the moment.”
Shows appreciation while setting a boundary. - “This sounds like a great opportunity, but I’m currently at full bandwidth.”
Professional and clear, with a positive tone. - “I’m not the best person for this right now, but I can help you find someone who is.”
Offers a solution without taking on the task. - “I’d love to support, but I’m trying to avoid overcommitting to ensure I meet existing deadlines.”
Shows responsibility and time management.