Saying No
Some questions that just seem to rumble on. Always in the background, leeching energy as they get talked about and talked about and al-mo-st settled and…
It’s flattering to be asked to get involved in something. Especially when it’s been going for a while and they’ve decided that you’re the person they need. Whether it’s a headhunter, company or organising committee, it feels good even to be considered.
It’s easy to let the flattery fog up clear thinking – which is all about commitment.
Two questions should always come to mind: Do I want to do this? … and, if Yes … Do I have the capacity to do it now?
It’s a pole-walk of value judgements and compromise, opportunism and rationalisations. Then there’s coming down to earth: which projects to defocus or drop – and that means reducing time or quality or focus and letting people down.
Or, you could just say No. Better than an uncommitted Yes, and way better than a Maybe.
Are you in or are you out?
Skippy strategy: Do you want to do this? Really? … and … do you have the capacity to do it now? Really?
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Category:
Decisions
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