avatarJeremy Enns

Summary

The article emphasizes the importance of strategically saying "no" to protect one's time and prioritize meaningful work.

Abstract

The article "What Are You Saying “Yes” To?" by Jeremy Enns discusses the significance of being selective with one's commitments. It suggests that saying "yes" too often, whether explicitly or by default, can lead to an overcrowded schedule filled with other people's priorities, leaving little room for personal, impactful work. Enns argues that mastering the art of saying "no" is a transformative skill that reclaims one's time and focuses efforts on tasks that truly matter. He encourages setting "no" as a default response and only deviating from it after careful consideration. The article concludes with a call to action for readers to take control of their time and a mention of Enns's platform where he shares insights on creating and marketing meaningful work regularly.

Opinions

  • Saying "yes" can inadvertently lead to being trapped by commitments that may not align with personal goals or values.
  • The inability to say "no" is seen as a failure that can have significant negative impacts on one's productivity and focus.
  • "No" is presented as an expression of courage, tact, and honesty, and is essential for personal time management.
  • Setting "no" as the default response is recommended as a protective measure for one's time and priorities.
  • The skill of saying "no" is considered crucial for dedicating time to unique work that only the individual can accomplish.
  • Readers are encouraged to be cautious and selective when allowing their time to be claimed by others' requests.

What Are You Saying “Yes” To?

Photo by Julian Lozano on Unsplash

It might be an obvious yes.

Or it might be implied — to everyone but you perhaps.

Maybe it’s simply a failure to say no.

Regardless, before long your “yeses” will ensnare you if you let them.

Crowding out the work that matters in favour of other people’s priorities.

“No” takes courage. It takes tact. It takes honesty.

It also takes back your time.

In fact, getting good at saying “no” might be the single most transformative skill when it comes to spending your time on the work that only you can do.

Set “no” as your default, and be wooed from that position with care.

Claim your time as your own or have it claimed from you.

New post every weekday on making and marketing work that matters 👇

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