Saying “no” actually makes your “yes” more valuable.
Let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’ —Jesus (Matthew 5:37)
We’ve had some work done in our home recently. We love the guys working and are so grateful for their effort. And, I’ve learned something about why people always warn that construction projects take longer than anticipated.
1. Nothing ever goes according to plan.
2. Contractors are usually working multiple jobs at once.
3. One contractor can’t start until the other is finished.
So, even if the drywall guy is ready to go, if the framing guy hasn’t finished their part because they’re spread out between four jobs, the project slows. No one is malicious — they’re just seeing the world as feast-or-famine. “It’s good now, so we’ll say yes to every project and figure it out later.” But they end up backing up the work, causing delays and frustrations.
Here’s the irony: When you say “no” to a job, it actually makes you more valuable for several reasons:
1. It’s clear you have priorities and discernment.
2. It’s obvious you’re in demand, thus must do good work.
3. You’ve set yourself up to deliver on your promises and have raving fans.
Say yes to less. No is your friend.