The reason to say NO
Sarah Wilson, CPCC, ACC |
I’m definitely a “glass half full” person.
I remember in my freshman year in high school, my writing composition teacher, Chris Williamson, told me I had a “warm, sunny yellow personality and can-do attitude.” Last week, after just a few years have passed (no comments, please) her observation flashed into my head. I was having to make some choices, and equating my “can-do attitude” with saying YES to things. In fact, I realized they are not intrinsically linked and can be separated.
The topic of saying NO has come up recently with two coaching clients. I see patterns with people who are approaching burn-out, or having problems meeting priorities and also are not feeling fulfilled. Most times, thinking about what you are saying YES and NO to can help in these situations.
Take 10 minutes – you can find the 10 minutes if it is important – and reflect on these questions:
Questions for Reflection
1. What types of personal activities or work projects make me really happy?
2. On a daily/weekly basis, what am I saying YES to?
3. Of those items, what is really satisfying (fulfilling) and/or do I enjoy?
4. If I start saying NO to more things, what space–mental, physical–would that create for me?
5. If I say NO, what can I start saying YES to that will be fulfilling?
Take Away: Saying NO to one thing — or many things — will actually support you being able to say YES to other things that can be more fulfilling and help you achieve your personal and professional goals.
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