Power of saying no

It’s tempting when you are first starting out to take every opportunity that comes to you. You certainly want to get to work as quick as possible. But before you jump in, think about the value of your time. Since time is by far the most finite resource you have. Take a step back and really evaluate the project, is it going somewhere? Can it help grow your client base? Improve your reputation? Is the person running the project actually going to market the final product properly? It is allot to think about.

Over the years I have said yes to far to many projects that I should have turned down, projects that end up going off the rails with all members mad at each other, or worse you invest a bunch of time in something that never ends up seeing the light of day. Now I am ultra careful about what I work on and who with. In the last year alone I turned down 5 large projects, but when I check on the progress they are making (usually though their facebook page) I am ALWAYS happy I turned them down. Value your time above all else, it is nonrenewable and limited. Put in the time when needed and flee projects that will suck it away. The other interesting consequence of saying no is that you appear more exclusive, and I suppose in a way you are. This will certainly help make you a bit more money and improve your reputation.

“Half of the troubles of this life can be traced to saying yes too quickly and not saying no soon enough.” Josh Billings