The One Word You Need To Save Time And Energy - And Grow Your Business
As a business owner, time is the only business resource that’s limited. Therefore, the bigger your business gets, the more important it is to start prioritizing and managing your time (and energy) better.
In today’s article, I’m going to share:
The word that unlocks more time and bandwidth to focus on business growth
Start saying no more!
It can be extremely uncomfortable to say no to others as it brings up feelings of guilt for disappointing others, or it can feel like you’re declining a possible opportunity that may lead to future business growth or that you’re not doing enough to achieve a specific goal.
If you want to get to the next level in your business, it’s extremely important that you become more discerning with your:
time
energy
resources
How to deploy the method to free up time
1 - Assess the situation:
To help you understand when to say no, you must first be very clear on your goals and intentions.
Every time a specific opportunity comes your way or someone asks you for something, you can then put it through the following filter:
“Is this opportunity something that will bring me closer to my business goals – and will spark joy and fulfillment?”
“Do we have energy and resources to put toward this at this moment?”
2 - Make a focus list
At the beginning of each week, quarter, or year make a list of priorities you will focus on during the year that will help you attain your goals, and commit to only saying yes to opportunities that pertain to that list.
A quick video demonstrating how to start using 'No'
When you know what it is that you want, it becomes easier to realize when you're saying yes to things that are not serving you. And will help you to figure out what you should say no to and what you can say yes to.
A lot of entrepreneurs have a problem saying no to people because they don't know how to do it politely, or they feel guilty about it. That’s why it’s important to have some quick strategies to help you to implement saying no more often.
Here are a few phrases to help you say no gracefully:
No, thank you
I really appreciate this, but will have to decline.
Unfortunately, that won’t be possible.
Psychologist and bestselling author Dr. Nicole LePera shared a brilliant five-word-formula to help you say no easier in Inc Magazine. Here’s her formula:
Appreciation + the no + well wishes
Putting this formula into practice: “Thank you so much for thinking of me (appreciation,) I’m unfortunately not going to be able to make it (the no) but I’m sure it’s going to be phenomenal! (well wishes.)
Remember, “No” is a complete sentence, and it’s ok to say no without the need to justify or explain yourself.
But often, as an entrepreneur, you’ll have to give explanations to your team or customers. In those cases, be sure to stick to the factual reasons for saying no, and only give the information needed.
Strategies to use this phrase without feeling guilty or rude
1 - Start small
Start saying no more often to smaller things – like when someone offers you a drink/something to eat that you’re not actually in the mood for. From there, you can progress to saying no to bigger things, like when an employee is asking for a day off that’s going to put too much strain on the rest of the team.
2 - Understand why we feel guilty
We feel guilty when we believe we are doing something wrong. So next time, when you feel guilty at the thought of saying no, be sure to ask yourself:
“What am I telling myself that’s making me feel that I’m doing something wrong?”
Asses whether the question to your answer is really true or a made-up story. If it’s not factual, then release yourself from the guilt and say no with confidence.
3 - Assess the opportunity cost
Every time you say yes to something that’s not aligned with your goals or values, you’re settling for less than you want for your business and life. It’s important to carefully assess what saying yes will cost your team, your business, and your mental health.
Saying no allows space for better opportunities and sends a very clear message about your commitment to allowing yourself the freedom and prosperity that you desire.
Remember, you can be kind and bold while saying no and setting firm boundaries.
What you will find when you start saying no to people is that you actually create a whole bunch of space for projects and opportunities that do drive business growth and success. I guarantee that if you practice this magic-little-no-thank-you line enough, you are going to be a happier, more fulfilled, and more relaxed person.
How can we work together?
If you liked what you read here, here’s how you can get more support from me to become the best entrepreneur you can be:
Accelerate your growth with this free handy download
Read my bestselling book, The Up Level Project
Join my group accountability program: Business Growth Achievers
Work with me: Book a 1:1 consultation with me here
