IF YOU have natural people-pleaser tendencies, it can be difficult to say no. Sometimes it's because you don't want to disappoint someone or perhaps you're seeking approval. Even when you are over stressed or over worked many people still hesitate to say no. If this sounds familiar, and you struggle to say no, than you're not alone.

It's important to learn how to say no to people and their requests when you're maxed out or simply don't want to do the thing. If you are unable to set boundaries and say no. This can be a contributing factor to stress or more stress. Which can eventually turn to resentment.

Fortunately, you can learn how to say no to people without causing hurt feelings or impair the relationship.

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Here are some strategies you can use to set boundaries, protect your personal time, and say no more often. Boosting your overall wellbeing, reducing stress levels and allowing you to spend time on the things that matter the most.

"I'm sorry, I can't do this right now" - this may help to stall, until you have a chance to fully look at how saying "yes" to this new commitment may affect your life and the lives of loved ones.

Use a sympathetic, but firm tone - "let me think about it" - if being firm is uncomfortable or you are dealing with pushy people. It's ok to say "Let me think about it and I'll get back to you". This allows you a chance to review your schedule and consider your options.

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"I can't do this, but I can do that" - if you would like to do what they're requesting, but don't have the time. It's fine to say no to all or part of the request. But mention a lesser commitment that you can make. This allows you to partially be involved, but it will be on your own terms.

Remember, that there are only so many hours in the day, we simply can't commit and say yes to it all.

Practice is key! Saying no has nothing to do with the other person and everything to do with self-respect and fulfilling your needs and desires. You are the only person who can do this.

Small steps create big smiles.