Purveyors of conventional wisdom can’t seem to agree if we should say yes to more things, or say no to almost everything.
According to Warren Buffet, “Really successful people say no to almost everything.” According to some respected academics and plenty of self-help writers, there are numerous benefits to saying yes to nearly everything.
Instead of these black and white rules, I’d propose an alternative.
Say yes when you’re in a mode of exploration, and say no when you’re in a mode of execution.
Feel stuck? Not sure what your life’s purpose is? Say yes to any opportunity that could broaden your horizons or introduce you to new and potentially helpful people.
On a mission? Can’t find enough time in the day? Say no to anything that’s a distraction from your core values.
Knowing which mode your in is critical to making the right choice.