Sometimes canceling plans is necessary, but it can leave others in the lurch.
Here’s a guide to help you decide “should I cancel plans?”
For others, a high concentration of penciled-in plans could have an opposite effect.
Trust is an important piece of relationships in general, but especially in friendship dynamics.
Illnesses, emergencies, and other unforeseen circumstances can throw a wrench into the best-laid plans.
And sometimes, you might just really need amental health day.
etiquette expert and founder of theProtocol School of Texas
But theyll be less so if it becomes a habit.
Below, find six questions to ask yourself before bailing.
Do I really want to hang out with this person or participate in this activity?
The heart of this question is gauging why you are avoiding seeing this person and doing this thing.
If the answer to any of those questions is no, Cargill says canceling might make sense.
you could apply this information in making future plans, as well, Gottsman says.
How am I feeling right now, andwhydo I not want to go?
Practice self-reflection to understand whats driving your desire to cancel.
If you find yourself canceling habitually, its helpful to consider the pattern of behavior.
etiquette expert and founder of theProtocol School of Texas
Maybe its an early-morning plan, and you just really dont want to wake up for it.
In this case, consider a later time for future plans.
How far in advance am I canceling?
Canceling well in advance is preferable to bailing at the last minute, Gottsman says.
Am I costing the other people involved time or money by canceling?
For example, its much easier to pull out of a coffee date than a wedding reception.
So, consider how your absence may inconvenience other people involved.
Beyond finances, keep in mind what the event might mean to the other party.
Even if you not showing up doesnt cost them money, it could be hurtful and damaging.
What message am I sending this person about our relationship?
If you repeatedly cancel on someone, they may feel that spending time with them isnt important to you.
Whether or not this is the case, you may find invitations dwindling if youre repeatedly ditching your plans.
Do I want to reschedule?
Dont offer to reschedule if you dont mean it.
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