I remember thinking to myself when my son was born that I will not say ‘no.’ I had some noble thought that if I took the time to explain the reasons behind saying no, it would be smooth sailing. I laugh (out loud) every time I think of it. Why did I ever think that would work?
Saying no provides boundaries, and boundaries are important for everyone, not just children. When planning the work week, it’s important to say no to make room for the yes that will propel business further, and that means saying no, a lot.
Early in my career, I said yes to every opportunity. I was extremely busy and felt very important. But the reality was I was just busy. Busy with things that didn’t accomplish my mission and left me exhausted and unfulfilled. I felt as though I was filling everyone’s cup but mine was left empty
“It’s only by saying NO that you can concentrate on the things that are really important.” -Steve Jobs
I had just started my career in corporate America and I was completely burnt out. I didn’t feel as though I was moving forward, just in a thousand different directions and gaining no traction. I learned the hard way that saying yes to everything was not the answer to anything.
Once I defined where I needed to go and what I needed to do, it became clear what priorities required my time. It can be a challenge--pushing aside the temptation to miss out on something, or the fear of not being liked by someone can creep in, but the more I focus on what I need to do, the less tempted I am to give in to these concerns.
Now, although my schedule is full, it contains time to relax and be creative, it has room for me to focus on my business, to be with family and friends; it has balance. It sounds amazing doesn’t it? A reality check: life has seasons, and so there are times that my schedule is mostly full of work and other times when something arises with my family that needs my full attention. The difference is my awareness. My tool is the ability to look at my schedule and say no to anything that doesn’t lead me toward my mission whether that is for my business, my family, or my personal growth. No more burn out! Instead, saying no provides the control and balance I need to give my best to all of the important areas of my life as well as grow and improve my business. Be purposeful and intentional with your time, say no more often, and you’ll move in the right direction and rarely if ever, go off course.
