There are many reasons to say ‘no’ to a project as a freelancer. You might not have time to complete it on schedule. The money might not be right. It doesn’t fall into your wheelhouse. You simply don’t want to do it. Regardless of the actual reason, what happens when you say ‘no’ to someone? Does it sever the connection? Will they offer you work down the road?

These questions trip me up any time I even think of turning down a project. It’s hard. You worry. I’ve only really said no one time,...