Know the Power of No
“No is a complete sentence. It does not require an explanation to follow. You can simple answer someone’s request with a simple no.”
When it comes to creative living or creative entrepreneurship, it’s important to know the power of no. When you’re starting out it will be tempting to say yes to every opportunity that comes your way. The good, the bad, the “do it for the exposure.” I’m speaking from experience here.
I worked with design clients who were not a good match for my style. I took on projects that I didn’t even offer as services. I said yes to outrageous timelines. This is an excellent recipe to get burned out pretty quickly. I do recommend trying new things, stretching yourself, and pushing your limits, but you don’t have to do it to your own detriment.
Learning to say no is an important skill to learn. Here’s why…
Saying no allows you to say yes to the important things.
If you’re saying yes to every little thing that comes your way, you might later have to pass on something that you would have really loved. You also might fall into the trap of over-scheduling yourself, which leads to stress, which leads to crabbiness that your friends and family don’t deserve to be on the receiving end of. Saying no to someone or something today will allow you to say yes to something else. Try to keep in mind that relaxing and play are things that you should prioritize for yourself. Don’t work yourself into the ground.
“When you say yes to others, make sure you are not saying no to yourself. ”
People will still like you if you say no.
I know this one is hard if you’re a people pleaser, but it’s true. People have lives. People have scheduling conflicts. People will understand if you aren’t available at the drop of a hat 24/7. If they don’t understand this, maybe you need to reevaluate that relationship. This is true for personal, professional, artistic… all relationships.
It’s not selfish to know your limits.
Saying no is setting a boundary. It’s so important for you to be able to identify what you can take on and contribute, without making you a crazy person. When we take on too much, we end up doing everything with a lesser quality. Maybe you can push through and your work wont suffer, but your relationships might. Know what you can handle and adjust accordingly.
“Never half ass two things. Whole ass one thing. ”
It’s ok to say “I’ll get back to you.”
If you’re not sure about something, you’re allowed to think things over before making a decision. You’re allowed to consult with a trusted friend, family member, or mentor, before making a decision.
Be honest and follow your gut.
If something feels right, it feels right. If it doesn’t feel right, then it doesn’t. It’s a simple thought, but it’s true. Trust your instincts, follow your gut, and be honest. You don’t owe anyone your time and energy. You are entitled to give it freely as you please, and reserve it when you feel the need. Honor yourself.
“You can be a kind person with a good heart and still say no.”
I want to encourage anyone who struggles with saying no to practice. Practice with a trusted friend. Practice in a mirror if you need to. Role playing sounds silly, but it can be very helpful to
Want to have a conversation about the power or no? Join the Art is a Record Creatives Community on Facebook, or shoot me a message. I would love to hear from you.
In an effort to foster a creatives community I’ve started a Facebook group called Art is a Record Creatives Community, the same name as this blog. I would love for you to join in the fun as we discuss creative living, projects, art, and life.
