I’ve gotten really good at saying “No” to things I don’t want to do.
Can you head up the student committee this year?
“No thank you, I’ve already got a ton on my plate.”
Will you pleeeease come to this networking event with me?
“Sorry, but it’s not the right audience for me.”
Wanna join us for fly-fishing?
“Uh-no.”
It took me a while but through practice, I usually avoid getting sucked into things I don’t want to do.
But there’s another challenge. Maybe you can relate to this?
It’s hard saying “No” to the things you do want to do.
Can you co-chair the Speakers Association?
Wanna join our weekly book club?
Will you pleeeease come to this all-paid, exclusive party with me?
Now these are things I’d happily like to do.
BUT…
…They either add more to my already full plate…
…Or they take me away from work or personal commitments I already have.
When you overcommit, you fall behind.
Saying “No” to what you want to do is hard.
You don’t want to miss out…on the opportunity or the fun.
Serious FOMO.
So – you say “Yes.”
Which means you over-commit. You overschedule. You overdo.
This is why prioritizing is critical.
If your well-being is important to you, you must prioritize your commitments.
Before deciding whether to say “yes” or “no,” think about the consequences and the potential impact on your time, energy, and goals.
Are there other commitments that may suffer if you say “yes”?
What’s the importance of the activity compared to your other responsibilities? To your stress level? To your body?
Make a well-thought-out, intentional decision and stick to it.
It’s okay to put yourself first.
In fact, it’s necessary if you want to be a better leader and role model.
Don’t let guilt or fear of disappointing others change your mind.
Be deliberate with your commitments. It’s the practice that builds your confidence.
It keeps you balanced and from falling behind.
Saying “No” to something you really want to do is tough.
But making choices that don’t align with your needs and goals is even tougher.
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