As a budding or an already successful entrepreneur you are often encouraged to say yes. Yes to a myriad of hustles that comes as a sure deal, a once in a life time opportunity, a win-win collaboration and not to be missed networking event that might lead to something bigger.
Do not say yes to everything and here is why
Other Doors Will Open
If one door closes another will open if you are good at what you do. Over time, people will get to see your style of doing business and this will become important. So, so do not let yourself become linked to “a jack of all and master of none”. Being the person or business that says yes to everything and not being selective will cement you in this space. Try to avoid it.
Also, saying no isn’t about being difficult or disengaged. It’s about being intentional. When you say yes to everything, you often say no to your own business or service and your goals; unless you are happy with being offered crumbs.
Yes, being the go to can be flattering but be careful it may also say you are not serious about your own business and are willing to take any amount for your service. You may feel it will look like you are ungrateful or unmotivated but, turning something down that does feel risky to you is OK.
Keep in mind that closed doors will not stay closed forever if you are good at what you do.
You Will Be Productive Not Just Busy
You do not always have to have something on the drawing board and when there is a down time do not chase projects to fill that void. Sometimes, the fastest way to grow isn’t by adding more it is by learning more. So having a down time and open spaces on the calendar, is not a bad thing. It is part of the process.
Use the down time to have brainstorming moments; come up with new ideas or discount others. Learn more and try to get good at what you do. When you get good and do not just spend time being busy with multiple things, you can confidently take your pick of projects that you know you will give your best and will finish.
Saying no to things that will not be of much use to you and your business at the end of the day is empowering, you will see.
Your Mental Health Matters
Sometimes saying no and protecting your peace is more important. When at peace and in a good mental space you will stay focused on the right things and not have your mind fill up with doubts and what ifs.
What if this is the opportunity that changes everything? Or, what if they never ask again? These are all what ifs and you need to focus your creative energy on the business that is making you money right now. Not tomorrow or next month, today!
Occupy your mind with those things that will make your business better, faster and cheaper than the competition and that you will be at peace with when you go to bed.
