“No” is one of the most powerful and under-used words in the English language.
I used to say “yes” to a lot of things out of concern people wouldn’t like me. It didn’t matter whether I wanted to do it; it was more about trying to please the other person.
In leadership, I used to say “yes” to everything as I wanted to be seen as the guy who could get things done. Unfortunately, though, I ended up with a thousand things on the go and struggled to finish any of them.
Leading with boundaries
Leadership without boundaries is not leadership. Without boundaries, you and your team will quickly have too much to do. Is this creating the conditions needed for success?
When you say “no” you establish and maintain the boundaries that will allow your team to succeed. You will give your team the space to succeed and grow.
“No.” The most powerful word in the English language. “No” establishes boundaries which keep your life and relationships healthy and sane.
You’ve got this.
Mike, your hitting “Publish” more often is sharpening your message and writing muscle. Congratulations. This is one of the best shorts I’ve read. It’s clear and dense. Powerful.