The most successful leaders I know share a counterintuitive trait: they're excellent at saying no.
The Yes Trap
Early in my career, I said yes to everything. Every client request, every new project, every "quick favor." I thought I was being helpful. In reality, I was destroying my ability to do great work.
The hidden costs of saying yes:
- Diluted focus
- Declining quality
- Burnout
- Resentment
- Broken promises
The Power of Strategic No
Saying no isn't negative—it's protective. It protects your time, energy, and ability to deliver excellence.
The 90% Rule
Warren Buffett suggests: If an opportunity isn't a 90% "HELL YES," it's a no. Most of us operate at 60% or 70%. Raise your bar.
The Opportunity Cost Test
Before saying yes, ask: "What will I have to say no to in order to do this?" Every yes has a hidden no.
The Energy Audit
Some activities energize you; others drain you. Track your energy for a week. The drainers are strong candidates for no.
How to Say No Gracefully
The Paradox of No
Here's what I've learned: the more you say no, the more valuable your yes becomes. When you do commit, people know you mean it.
Strategic focus isn't about doing less—it's about doing what matters most.