If you have come into some money, either by selling a structured settlement or winning the lottery, there will be an onslaught of people who will come forward, hoping for a piece of your newfound fortune.
If you were raised in a household where saying “no” was considered rude, or worked in a job where “no” was always a wrong answer, you’ve been conditioned to be polite, even at your own expense. Now is the time to shift your thinking and start looking out for you. Doing things solely for the benefit of others will lead to resentment, and possibly financial ruin. Put yourself first. Give yourself permission to say no. Remind yourself – as often as necessary – that you have the right to say no to anything you don’t want. Need something more specific? Here are some graceful exits from the pressure to say yes.
To Salespeople:
Amazing how the guys who wouldn’t give you the time of day when you were poor suddenly want to talk to you now that you have money. When you encounter a pushy salesperson, try these:
“I need some time to think about it. I will call you if I decide to buy.” (Even if the salesman claims his offer won’t be good tomorrow, he’ll probably honor it. And if he doesn’t, go elsewhere.)
“I run all significant purchases by my spouse. I’ll let you know if we decide to buy.”
Charities:
These are good causes, and the reps are as slick as the best salesmen in getting you to loosen the purse strings. Don’t want to be bothered? Try:
“Sorry, but my financial advisor and I have planned out all of my charitable giving for the year.”
“Yours is a fine organization, but I have already worked out my will with my tax advisor. If I reconsider, I’ll let you know.”
“I check with my tax advisor on all charitable giving. Send your information to my P. O. Box and we will consider it.”
Family:
This is the hardest of all. Expect to be reminded of all the times they were there for you. Expect to be called ungrateful, disrespectful, and uncaring. Don’t you know how hard Uncle Bob’s life has been? Don’t you love us?
“I’m sorry, but I have never met you and have never heard of you. I don’t know how we are related.” (Of course, this one won’t work on your mom.)
“Cousin Joe, we haven’t talked since we were kids. Why are you calling me now?”
“Sorry, but my financial advisor and I have already worked out the budget for this year.”
“Son, I can’t pay off your mortgage, but I can give you $_____.”
“Mom, I love you and Dad with all my heart. But this money has to support me and the kids. We have to plan our finances around that.”
If none of these work, there is a somewhat less graceful way to say no. Practice it again and again if need be. It’s:
“NO!”
If you need help selling your structured settlement, annuity or lottery payments,
contact us today. We are here to answer your questions and help you obtain the
highest possible price for your payments.
