There is a difference between “I’m scared to do this,” and “this doesn’t align with my goals right now.” There is so much power in “no” when it comes to business. It helps us stay in focus, move the needle forward, and reach our biggest goals.
But how do we know when to say “no?” And how do we say it? And when should we say yes and move past being scared to dream bigger?
Lots of questions, and hopefully this blog helps you see your upcoming opportunities through a filter that’ll explode your business.
How to Know When to Say “No”
It doesn’t align with your values
You should have a mission statement and/or core values written down for your business [if you don’t, stop now and get that done!] Your mission statement and core values should serve as a filter for your business. Anytime you have an idea of a new project or an opportunity that’s presented to you, you should always approach your decision-making through the lens of your mission and values.
If it doesn’t align…it’s a “no”
It doesn’t support your life vision
I am an advocate for creating a life that you love. I call this your life vision. And it’s important to design your business AROUND what you want your life to look like.
If this opportunity takes away from your vision, moves it in a different direction than you intended, or interferes with your personal current priorities…it’s a “no” (or a “not right now”)
It doesn’t contribute to your current business goals or focus
Like most entrepreneurs, I’m sure you’re a visionary and get ideas for your business often. This is why it’s crucial to have monthly and quarterly goals. These goals are meant to keep you focused on what will actually move the needle forward in your business.
All current projects and efforts should move toward your current business goal.
So if you think of a fun project idea, or you’re presented with a collaboration opportunity that doesn’t align with your goals at the time…it’s a “no.”
How to distinguish between alignment and fear
I think this is simple. If an opportunity or idea comes your way and you find yourself being drawn to it, it’s worth giving it a second thought. If it DOES align with your values, DOES support your life vision, and DOES contribute to your current business goal…then it’s probably a “YES!”
And if it’s a “YES” that scares you…well, mama, this is where the magic happens.
This is the opportunity to dig deep, step outside of your comfort zone, and make it happen.
How to Say “No”
Sometimes it’s hard to say “no!” If you are approached with an opportunity (or think of an idea) that you know is a “no” or “not right now,” sometimes it’s still hard to say it! I get it, it’s hard to pass on something for fear that it will explode your business, get you new leads, etc.
But here are a couple of ways that you can say “no” in a way that…
“What an amazing opportunity! Thank you so much for thinking of me. As much as I’d love to accept your invitation, this opportunity doesn’t align with the direction of my business at this time.”
“Thank you so much for this invitation! I’m honored. Unfortunately, I have to say “no” to this opportunity because it doesn’t fall in line with the focus of my business at this time.”
You get the point. This approach helps you say “no” in a polite way. And your peers will respect you even more for honoring your boundaries.
Do What Lights You Up
In the end, do the things that bring you joy and light you up! That’s not to say that some necessary obligations won’t be hard or scary. But creating a joy-filled business and life is the point of all of this right? Don’t lose sight of that, mama.
