I’ve never been good at saying no to people. It runs in the family (or at least the women). If someone asks me to help them, I like to do it, even if it doesn’t always suit me. In business, there’s a tendency to say yes to work, to invitations to events and to networking groups, although it may not be relevant to you, pay well enough or have discernible benefits.

Certainly, when you’re starting out, building your list and looking for testimonials, you accept lower paid work because you need the money. You also don’t want to have a negative view of your business.

But there has to come a time when, instead of automatically saying yes, you stop and reflect. Is this worth the time you’ll have to put in? Does it fit with your long-term goals? Likewise, will you meet potential clients, collaborators or people you can build relationships with at that event, or will you just be making up the numbers?

The Benefits to Business

Far from damaging your reputation, it can actually enhance it. Firstly, it gives the impression that you’re busy, rather than desperate to take on anything that’s offered. It shows that you value your time and skills, and you believe that others should too.

Setting boundaries is important, because it helps you balance your time and prevents you from being over-committed and at a risk of burnout. Also, if you say yes to something just because you think you should, you feel resentful and put out, and that will show in the quality of your work or your attitude.

Of course. That’s not to say you should turn down everything – a one-off piece of work could lead to repeat business. And you never know when you who’ll you meet at an event. And say yes to things that interest you. Just consider it carefully, and if you’re unsure, it’s best not to do it.

Being more selective and saying no will ultimately give you more time to focus, prioritise and grow your business. I’m going to practice saying it in front of the mirror until it feels comfortable.