Saying Yes to the Right Things Matters More Than Saying No

We hear a lot about the power of saying no. And it is important. But the harder skill is knowing what to say yes to. A strategic yes — to a project that excites you, a relationship that nourishes you, a challenge that stretches you — can reshape your entire trajectory. A reflexive yes to everything that comes along just fills your calendar with other people's priorities.

Before you say yes, ask: Does this align with where I am trying to go? Not every opportunity is your opportunity. The ones worth taking usually scare you a little and light you up at the same time.