“The whole point of getting things done is knowing what to leave undone.”
Oswald Chambers
This might be the biggest challenge a leader faces. For that matter it might be the biggest challenge any person faces. Saying “yes” to something means that you are saying “no” to something else.
Do you have a crystal clear understanding of your priorities? I’d like to think that I do, but honestly I struggle at times to say “no.” There is always more than can be done than should be done. For me it helps to break the question into two parts.
- Should I do this? Does it align with my priorities and goals?
- If yes, then can I do it? If I say yes will I be able to complete it at an acceptable level without impacting my previous commitments?
Sounds easy right. If only that were the case.


