I don’t know about you, but my schedule for this week is slightly terrifying. I mean, not really, because I know that things happen one at a time, and if I’m present wherever I am at any given moment, it will all be good. There’s a lot on it, though. A LOT. Mostly things I like, which is a big factor in my belief that it will all get done. Still, though, the situation raises a good question.
How much of what is on your agenda for the week was intentionally put there by you? How much of it just landed there because you didn’t say no? Of course, there are a few things that are non-negotiable, for all of us. But, I’m talking about the other things — the commitments, events, meetings, etc. that wouldn’t be there if you hadn’t let them land there. Or, if you hadn’t NOT not let them land there.
You probably already know the answers, but if saying them out loud makes you cringe, it’s time to re-evaluate your reflexive reaction to requests for your time. Don’t worry, we’ll get more into it on Wednesday.
For now, take a deep breath. Yes, it’s called Monday, but it’s also just a day. Don’t let it get the best of you. Or you know what: actually, do.
3 thoughts on “Monday Moment: Declined”
This post reminds me of a great tip I still remember you sharing with me one time (during one of our awesome mid-week lunch meet-ups at WF- doesn’t that seem like forever ago?!) It was to not feel like I HAD to respond to every email/request for my attention that came into my inbox. Sounds simple, but it’s really stuck with me and helped with the ability to say “no” (by not even entertaining the option). Granted, it’s not always possible to do this, but much more so than I ever realized once I actually started doing it!
Katelyn, your memory is amazing! And such a sweet memory to recall. 🙂 I miss those lunches! They were always a “yes”!
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