Such a simple word, yet so hard for many of us to say. However, the word “no” must become part of our vocabulary if we want to set an intention for our business, create goals and maintain focus throughout the year.
There are two parts to saying no – internal and external. Internal to our business or our work life, we must identify what isn’t working, what behaviors may hinder our growth, and what current activities are not critical to the success of the business. As we approach our new planning season, we have an opportunity to look critically at our business through the lens of the year just coming to an end. What worked, and what did not work? For the things that did not work, can you pinpoint why? Are there things that we have learned about our business this year that helps us decide what we will no longer do or no longer tolerate in our business?
A simple exercise is to take a look at what is not working in your business. Then, determine what you must stop doing to make the problem go away. Finally, what will you do differently now that you have said no? Saying no to current unproductive, or possibly destructive behaviors will allow room for improvement. Saying no to a difficult client can open the door for a new client who is better aligned with your own mission. Saying no to a cumbersome process can pave the way for new efficiencies in your company. There are lots of reasons to say no; I encourage you to find your NO!
We can apply the NO principle externally, to our personal lives and obligations as well. Many of us are asked to do many things – take meetings, jump on zoom calls, be present at networking events, volunteer in the community, at school, church, etc. It is easy to get overbooked very quickly if we don’t use NO judiciously. Of course, I am not suggesting that we turn down every request for help that we receive, rather, I urge you to consider each and every request cautiously and with an eye towards balance. Have an intentional approach to handling requests. What fits in with your individual priorities? Focus on your personal mission and say yes to things that align with what you believe in, and that you have the time for. Say no to everything else. If it does not align with your personal mission or your company direction, it is easier to say no, than to agree with something that could potentially pull you off course.
One of the simplest words, yet often, one of the most difficult to say! Practice with this and see how it enables you to find and hold your focus throughout the year.
