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Saying No Framework (Hell Yes or No)

career · hard · Zero — this saves time

What is Saying No Framework (Hell Yes or No)?

Apply a simple filter to every professional opportunity: if it's not a 'Hell yes!', it's a no. Most people are overcommitted because they say yes to merely 'okay' opportunities. Saying no to good things creates space for great things. Use scripts to decline gracefully without burning bridges.

Is there evidence for it?

EVIDENCEmoderate

How do you do Saying No Framework (Hell Yes or No)?

  1. 1.For every new request, wait 24 hours before responding — urgency is usually manufactured
  2. 2.Ask yourself: 'If this were the only thing I did this quarter, would I be thrilled?'
  3. 3.If it's not a clear yes, use a decline script: 'I appreciate you thinking of me. I'm focused on X right now and can't give this the attention it deserves.'
  4. 4.Track what you say no to — review quarterly to check if you're filtering correctly
  5. 5.Protect your 'Hell yes' commitments by blocking time for them before anything else

How long does it take?

Zero — this saves time.

Is it hard to start?

hard.

Source: Derek Sivers, 'Hell Yes or No' (2020); Greg McKeown, Essentialism (2014)
career · boundaries · focus · decision-making · priorities
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