If you’re a regular Time & Space reader or a client, you know that I have my list of Top 10 Time Management Mistakes. #9 on that list is “Always saying “yes”. So many times people are in a position of saying “yes” to whatever comes their way and end up adding things to their to-do list without thinking twice about it. The problem is that everything doesn’t fit on your to-do list.
One of the most powerful tools in your time management tool box is saying “no”, but we’re accustomed to acquiescing to every request that we get. When a request comes your way, stop! Think about a few things before you respond. First of all, does the request align with what you value; does it make sense? Then ask yourself if you have time to add the request to your to-do list. If the request doesn’t line up, if you don’t have the time, embrace the power of “no”.
To embrace the power of “no” you have to let go of what you usually do. Saying “yes” is a lot easier. Saying “no” opens you to people questioning you, but simultaneously opens up the time and space for you to move on to the things that you’re committed to, which are the things that will move you closer to what you’re trying to accomplish.
Saying “no” gives you control over your time. When you continue to give in, it continues to allow others to have control over your time. To help you get control of your time, add saying “no” to your time management tool box. Use it tactfully, and use it often.