Lost in Translation: How to Say “No”, without wounding a Type 2 Artwork

Beyond Your Number

You’re not just a type — you’re a whole story. Beyond Your Number is a conversational Enneagram podcast where Damon & Kelly explore real-life growth through personality. From relationships to team dynamics, we help you go deeper than the label. New episodes every Wednesday. Formerly EnneagramU.

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Lost in Translation: How to Say “No”, without wounding a Type 2

September 10, 2025 • Faith and Community • Season 3 • Episode 117

We’re back from break and digging into Type 2 (The Helper) in our Lost in Translation series. What you mean as a simple boundary,“Thanks, I’m good”,can land as rejection to a Two. Damon and Kelly unpack common misinterpretations, offer exact phrases that keep connection and clarity, and share a few “gut triad” confessions about learning to ask for help.

What gets “Lost in Translation” for Type 2

When you say “I don’t need your help,” a Two may hear:

“You’re not valuable.”
“You’re making this about you.”
“You’re too much / smothering.”
“We’re fine without you.”
“You crossed a boundary.”

Say It Better (Exact Scripts)

Use/adjust these word-for-word:

Affirm + Boundary

“Thank you, that was really thoughtful. For this one, I need to handle it myself.”
“I can tell you care. I’m okay for now, but I appreciate you checking.”

Affirm + Future Invite

“You’re great at spotting needs. I’m covered at the moment; if that changes, I’ll reach out.”
“Could we hold off for now while I get my arms around it? If I need a hand later, I’ll let you know.”

Normalize Support

“I’m learning to ask for help better. If that comes up here, you’ll be the first I ask.”

Why this works

Type 2s link worth to being helpful. Appreciation + clarity keeps connection intact while honoring boundaries.

Reframes & Reflection

For Speakers (all types):
- “Am I rejecting the help or the person?”
- “Can I name their intention before I say no?”
- “Do I actually need help and pride is answering for me?”
For Type 2s:
- “Is this a ‘no’ to the task or a ‘no’ to me?”
- Truth to practice: “I’m wanted for what I do, and loved for who I am.”

One-week Practice