How many of us have a hard time saying “no” to other people? Insert hadn’t up over here 🙂 I’ve been working on this for years and it still creeps in. I find it creeps in the most when I feel off self-care wise and a little more vulnerable as a result. It’s easier to slip into people pleasing mode.
But we all deserve to live a life we love. Does that mean sometimes compromising in order to help a friend or spend time doing something that’s important to our spouse? Sure. But those aren’t the kind of no’s we’re talking about. We’re taking about the things we just don’t want to do, that end up causing resentment later if we do. As we approach a busy time of year – the end of school always gets me – let’s be super cognizant about what we are tempted to say yes to and say no instead if it’s not an absolute yes! Today I share what I have seen to be a pattern with those entrepreneurs who become successful doing what they love. Saying no applies directly to #6.
A few things I’ve come to realize after working with many entrepreneurs. The following stand out as focal points for being successful.
1. Do what you say you’re going to do. It will be hard to be then seriously or be trusted when you don’t so what you say you’re going to do. Honouring your word will go far in building relationships in business.
2. Be early! This has been a tough one for me to swallow, but a lot of truth lies in it. When we’re late it shows a level or disrespect not only for the people we are meeting with but for ourselves. Value yourself and your time, and other people’s. And why not even be a little early??!!
3. Join (or create) a tribe of like-minded business owners. Nothing beats a group of people who are like-minded to support and collaborate with. Being in business for yourself can be isolating. Connection goes a long way for our hearts and souls, and is amazing what shows up in life and business as a result.
4. Have good boundaries over your time. Pay conscious attention to what you are saying yes and no to in your life and business. Are you saying yes when you don’t want to? That will only cerate resentment later. Are you making yourself so busy that you don’t have time to do what you love? Are you spending time with people who bring you down instead of empowering you? Start asking yourself, “if I loved myself would I do _____?”. I know it’s a bit cliché, but it’s true. If we really loved and honoured ourselves, what would we be doing with our time and with whom would we spend it with?
5. Avoid the drama. Stop the gossip and the analyzing of why someone did or didn’t do something. There are so many other things you could be spending time on – like growing your business and enjoying your life – then worrying about why someone else is doing or not doing something. When we let go of expectations of others we set ourselves free. When we learn the lesson of why this person or situation is showing-up, it can stop showing-up! How freeing!!
6. Last but not least, gain control over your energy. Coming from a loving and kind energy, where you legitimately care about people, goes a long way. What you put out will come back in spades, and when you focus on being of service first always, your business will grow exponentially.
