Should you say 'no' more often?
Drs Chris and Xand van Tulleken discuss why so many of us have a hard time saying no and explore the importance of enforcing boundaries across many aspects of our lives.
Why is it so hard to say no? Whether it鈥檚 at work, with family, or in everyday social situations, many of us find ourselves saying yes when we really want to say no, then paying the price later in stress, burnout, or resentment.
In this programme, the doctors explore the psychology behind our reluctance to turn things down, and how we can become more comfortable protecting our boundaries.
They鈥檙e joined by behavioural scientist and physician Dr Sunita Sah from Cornell University , whose research reveals how social pressure, guilt, and even professionalism can get in the way of a simple two-letter word. Together, they explore why we struggle to say no, and offer practical strategies to help us do it more often, and with confidence.
If you want to get in touch, you can email us at whatsupdocs@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08000 665 123.
Presenters: Drs Chris and Xand van Tulleken
Guest: Dr Sunita Sah
Producer: Emily Bird
Executive Producers: Rami Tzabar and Jo Rowntree
Editor: Kirsten Lass
Assistant Producer: Maia Miller-Lewis
Tech Lead: Reuben Huxtable
Social Media: Leon Gower
Digital Lead: Richard Berry
Composer: Phoebe McFarlane
Sound Design: Melvin Rickarby
At the 蜜芽传媒:
Assistant Commissioner: Greg Smith
Commissioning Editor: Rhian Roberts
A Loftus Media production for 蜜芽传媒 Radio 4
On radio
Broadcast
- Tue 29 Jul 2025 16:30蜜芽传媒 Radio 4
Podcast
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What's Up Docs?
Chris and Xand van Tulleken are on a mission to help us take better care of ourselves.
