We writers live in a world of “yesses.” We love to say yes to that podcast interview, that new idea, that speaking opportunity, or that client work.  

There’s a good reason we do this. We don’t want to waste opportunities to build relationships and reach new readers. But the problem is that every “yes” we speak is also a “no” to something else. We only have so much time on this earth and we have to defend it vigorously. 

But what if you took the opposite approach? What if everything was a “no” by default? 

How do you do this? How do you get to a place where you are able to say no to so many things, even very good things? 

The solution is to get clear on what you want to do. When you are clear on what you are saying yes to, the no’s become much easier. If something doesn’t help you achieve your goal, you simply say, “No.”

Of course, it’s not always that smooth and easy in real life, but it is a great principle to consider. 

As the marketing expert Jeff Walker said, “Every yes must be defended by a thousand no’s.”  

Where do you live? Do you live in the land of a thousand “yesses” or the land of a thousand “no’s”? 

Do you have a clear idea of what you are saying yes to? And if so, what are you going to say “no” to so that you can give every “yes” your best attention?