In this episode we talk about How to Say No, the benefits of doing so and as always, throw in a story or two.

Some noteworthy highlights from the episode:

• If you don't say NO, others will determine your schedule.
• There is always a trade off don't have the illusion you can do it all.
• Saying no actually wins you respect.

Have a read of this article that goes into more detail on ways to say no:

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/8-ways-say-without-feeling-like-jerk-steve-cunningham

Our favourite ways to say no:

• Pause. Don't jump in with excitement straight away.
• Get some distance and time in. Say, "let me check my calendar and get back to you".
• Say, "yes, but what should I reprioritize" - show them there is a trade off.
• Delegate > win win, you cannot be the expert in everything, give other people exposure / opportunity.

Another thing you need to do is get on top of things so you're not even put in the situation where you have to say "no". Fix it earlier in the pipeline

• Block time on your calendar for your own work.
• Let your team know when you are working on something (e.g. you won't be on Slack).

Taking on too much ultimately results in multitasking because you're overcommitted (ever been in a meeting while doing your email?)

Stories:
You'll have to listen!