Say “No” (and really mean it)

“No” is the least-used word in the ADDiva vocabulary. Even when we are completely overwhelmed we like to oblige. Yes, I’ll bring brownies to school. Yes, I’ll work late again. Yes, I’ll take you to the doctor. Yes, I’ll go to the movies with you.
Of course you want to be helpful. You don’t want to disappoint. You are enthused about the request. Or you’re a bona fide People Pleaser (it’s common in the ADDiva community. So how can you be honest and decline their request without burning bridges and eroding relationships?